Amid defence deals, don't forget Prabowo's pledge to Indonesians
Originally published in The Canberra Times
The new defence pact between Australia and Indonesia will hopefully enhance regional security. But amid the diplomatic fanfare, let's not forget: all politics is local.
For Indonesia's incoming president, Prabowo Subianto, a lot will turn on whether he can fulfil his promises to improve the lives of everyday Indonesians. Australia can make a difference here, and in doing so further solidify one its most critical international relationships.
Subianto steps into office this October with bold promises to drive economic growth, create jobs, boost tax revenues and eradicate extreme poverty.
At the centre is his plan to roll out an ambitious free school lunch program. This could be a game-changer not just for Prabowo but for millions of school children that represent the future of their country. And Australia has the capacity and track record to be a key partner.
Despite concerns over cost and corruption, the program is set to move forward with A$6.8 billion allocated in next year's budget. President Widodo's mid-August signing of the Presidential Regulation for the National Nutrition Agency - reporting directly to him - makes getting this program right even more important.
For Indonesians, the program isn't just a meal ticket, it's a much-needed assault on malnutrition, stunting, food insecurity, social protection and economic empowerment.
Its success could transform Indonesian society and become a landmark achievement.
For the new leaders, delivering on this promise isn't just an obligation - it's a defining moment.
Delivering this program effectively will be a big lift. It will require support and collaboration across numerous parts of government and innovative reform of inefficient and antiquated government mechanisms for delivering support.
Above all, maintaining transparency and accountability must be a top priority.
Australia has the credibility and track record to play a pivotal role in supporting this effort.
In 2010, President Yudhoyono established the National Team for the Acceleration of Poverty Reduction (TNP2K), an intergovernmental think tank led by Vice-President Boediono focused on reforming Indonesia's social protection programs. TNP2K and its reform agenda has been a massive success. And Australian support has been vital - bringing in top experts whom the Indonesian government could not otherwise afford, supporting pilot project, financing randomised controlled trial studies to determine what works best, and leveraging in key international partners such as the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank.
Under President Widodo, vice-presidents Kalla and Amin continued to lead the TNP2K, with Australia's steadfast backing proving crucial to its ongoing success.
This success story highlights Australia's impact and proves how effective collaboration can advance Indonesian government agendas. It's a blueprint for future partnerships, demonstrating strategic, context-sensitive support not only drives impactful reforms but also strengthens governance.
Now, it's time for Australia to step up once more and drive Indonesia's transformative journey forward. By bolstering the implementation team, tailoring the program to local needs, and ensuring rigorous monitoring, Australia can build on its history of successful partnership. Collaborating with international partners, showcasing achievements globally, and leveraging Australian innovations in agriculture and food tech will amplify the program's impact.
Australia is also rolling out the same initiative, a free school meal program, now in its preparation phase. This shared journey offers a unique chance for both nations to collaborate, exchange insights, and refine strategies.
Subianto is set to entrust the free lunch program to Vice President-elect Gibran Rakabuming Raka. This move aligns with the established precedent in Indonesia, where the Vice President takes on a key role in coordinating social protection reforms - a role Australia has supported actively. Raka is actively overseeing the free lunch program pilot project and is eager to learn from successful implementations in other countries.
The Australia-Indonesia development partnership 2024-2028 is a dynamic collaboration built on respect and designed to drive economic and social progress. Aligning support with Indonesia's growth and the needs of its leaders will be crucial for a successful and meaningful partnership.
The true test for Subianto lies not in military alliances but in the daily lives of his people. His promise of a free school lunch program is a lifeline to transform the future of Indonesian children. While security is crucial, it's nurturing a nation's potential that forges the deepest and most enduring ties between Australia and Indonesia.
