Prabowo, Gates review free meals program at school

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto accompanied philanthropist and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates to review the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals program at Jati Public Elementary School 03 in East Jakarta on Wednesday.

At the school, Prabowo and Gates, joined by several ministers, were welcomed by schoolchildren who had been waiting for their arrival.

Dressed in a brown safari shirt and a black peci hat, the president waved to the pupils who called out his name as he entered the school courtyard.

The head of state then guided Gates to inspect stacks of stainless steel trays filled with nutritious meals prepared for distribution. He also opened one of the trays to show the American philanthropist the day's menu.

The two then visited a classroom where they observed a pupil leading a prayer before the class began eating.

President Prabowo also introduced Gates to Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana. The three then headed to another classroom while engaging in conversation.

In addition to reviewing the national priority program, the group observed the school's initiative to provide free oral and dental health checks for its students.

At the end of their visit, Prabowo and Gates bid farewell to the pupils, with the president once again waving to those watching from the upper floors of the school building.

Prabowo then escorted Gates back to his vehicle and expressed gratitude for the philanthropist’s visit to Indonesia.

After Gates departed, the president took time to greet the local residents who had gathered to show their respect and affection before getting into his official car.

Earlier that morning, Prabowo and Gates held a two-hour discussion at Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, during which they addressed issues related to health, nutrition, financial inclusion, and public digital infrastructure.

Foreign Affairs Minister Sugiono and Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin participated in both the palace meeting and the school visit.