JAKARTA – August 28, 2024. Indonesian youth, as part of the country’s demographic bonus, play a key role in realizing the vision of Golden Indonesia 2045, where improving the quality of health and education serves as one of its main pillars. There are many ways for young people to participate in adopting healthier lifestyles while also protecting the planet. These efforts can begin with small actions at home or through involvement in collective global movements such as Meatless Monday Indonesia (MMI), which aims to encourage Indonesians—especially urban communities of productive age—to reduce meat consumption for the sake of both personal health and environmental sustainability.

This was conveyed by Dian Rosdiana, Executive Director of Jalin Foundation, in welcoming the Parara Youth World Month event held on Wednesday (28/8) at Parara Ethical Store & Café, South Jakarta. The event, themed “Intergenerational Solidarity: A Sustainable Nusantara,” marked a collaboration between Jalin Foundation and Konsorsium Panen Raya Nusantara (Parara), aiming to provide deeper understanding about the Meatless Monday movement in Indonesia, including its achievements and future agenda.

Dian further explained that Meatless Monday Indonesia, as part of the global Meatless Monday movement already implemented in 40 countries, can become an accessible entry point for young people to become more aware of healthy and sustainable lifestyles.

Supported by 50 organizations, the event also featured a talk show titled “The Importance of Food System Transformation for the Younger Generation.” Representing Meatless Monday Indonesia, Andi Reski participated as a speaker. In his presentation, Ekki emphasized that the main concept promoted by MMI is encouraging people to reduce the consumption of meat—including red meat, poultry, seafood, and dairy products—and increase the intake of vegetables, fruits, and legumes. Monday was specifically chosen because it is considered the ideal start of the week for building new habits and positive changes.

“This is what differentiates the MMI movement from vegetarian or vegan lifestyles. MMI does not aim to completely eliminate meat consumption, but simply to reduce it for one day each week,” said Ekki.

The talk show also highlighted the various benefits of avoiding meat and animal-based products one day a week. According to Ekki, the health benefits include helping control cholesterol levels, improving digestion, managing body weight, strengthening the immune system, and reducing the risk of other non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

Beyond its health benefits, the Meatless Monday Indonesia movement also plays an important role in preserving natural resources and combating climate change. In addition, Ekki expressed hope that MMI could further promote the diversity of Indonesia’s local plant-based foods as part of its mission to encourage healthier eating habits and environmental sustainability.