Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy Minister for Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers, Dzulfikar Ahmad, said the government's free nutritious meal program is one way to prepare a superior workforce to capitalize on the demographic bonus.
"When we want to build a great, advanced, and extraordinary nation, it is undeniable that sufficient nutrition for the younger generation is a must," he said here on Monday.
Indonesia is predicted to experience a demographic bonus in 2045, with Generation Z playing a vital role as the major productive workforce. It is expected to drive change and progress for the nation.
The preparation of human resources covers various sectors, such as education, health, employment, and economic empowerment. Fulfilling the nutritional needs of children is important to prevent stunting cases, he added.
According to Ahmad, President Prabowo Subianto wants the free nutritious meal program to run according to plan. Thus, one or two institutions alone will not be involved in the program's implementation, but all levels of the Red and White Cabinet.
He said that providing nutritious food is not just about satisfying hunger, but supporting the physical and mental development of the younger generation.
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Eating nutritious food is one of the government's real steps to ensure that the next generation, especially children and adolescents, can grow into healthy and quality individuals.
With the increasing global challenges, he added, it is important for the government to ensure that young people get the right nutritional intake so that they can compete and contribute positively to society.
"The government is on the right track with various programs that encourage youth involvement, including fulfilling good nutrition and equitable education," Ahmad said.
He explained that Generation Z, which is known as the generation of digital natives, often faces mental health problems. Surveys have shown that one in three teenagers has experienced mental health problems in the past 12 months.
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A clean environment and balanced nutrition play an important role in building a strong mentality. Proper nutrition can affect mood, energy, and focus — all of which are important for academic achievement and personal development.
"Good nutrition not only contributes to physical health but also supports their mental health and social development," Ahmad said.
According to him, in the effort toward Indonesia Emas 2045, a generation with high competence, creativity, and innovation is needed. This effort can be fulfilled by a generation that has access to good nutrition and equitable education.