Jakarta, Nov. 23 -- The government has announced that Indonesia aims to achieve protein self-sufficiency by 2026, stressing that adequate protein intake is essential for improving cognitive abilities, especially among students and young people.

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan made the statement during National Fish Day in Jakarta on Sunday.

Hasan said that average IQ levels in developed countries exceed 109, while Indonesia's average remains around 90. To close this gap, he said the government must prioritize food self-sufficiency, with a particular focus on increasing national protein availability.

"We must be self-sufficient. Then we provide it on our children's dining tables and prepare them for the future. That is how...