This mosque in Indonesia has its own free meal programme

As dusk falls during Ramadan in Yogyakarta, thousands of people flock to the narrow streets of Jogokariyan, drawn not by a government programme but by a neighbourhood mosque that has quietly built one of Indonesia’s most enduring food distribution efforts.

At the heart of the gathering is Jogokariyan Mosque, which this Ramadan is serving 3,800 free iftar meals every evening — complete with meals of rice, meat, vegetables and side dishes. 

This initiative is funded entirely by public donations and prepared by hundreds of volunteers.

Beyond the mosque, a 500-metre stretch of Jogokariyan Street transforms each evening into a bustling Ramadan market. 

This year, 400 micro, small and medium-sized enterprises are operating food stalls, up from 350 last year. Organisers estimate individual traders earn between Rp 300,000 and Rp 1 million ($20 to $65) per night, with more than half of the stalls run by local residents.

Now in its 22nd year, the Jogokariyan Ramadan event highlights Indonesia’s long-standing tradition of community-led food provision during the fasting month. It also reflects the broader national focus on nutrition and food security.

Since 2025, the government under President Prabowo Subianto has expanded its Free Nutritious Meal programme, which aims to provide meals to schoolchildren, toddlers and pregnant women across the country. 

The initiative reached more than 55 million recipients in its first year, underlining Indonesia’s growing commitment to ensuring access to food for all.