By: Alexandro Dimitri*)
The implementation of the flagship Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program under the direction of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is a concrete manifestation of the government’s commitment to shaping the nation’s future through nutritional interventions that strengthen the quality of Indonesia’s human resources. Within the framework of the Prabowo Subianto-Gibran Rakabuming Raka administration, synergy across institutions, regions, and communities is a determining factor in the success and effectiveness of this program.
The Head of BGN, Dadan Hindayana, stated in a press release that MBG has reached more than 36.7 million beneficiaries through more than 12,500 Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) across 38 provinces, a result he described as proof that the program remains “on track.” Dadan emphasized that this achievement is the result of collaboration between the central government, provinces, districts/cities, and other stakeholders, ensuring that no region is left behind in terms of nutritional fulfillment.
In terms of economic empowerment, MBG also demonstrates its capacity as a multifunctional program. The Deputy Head of the National Food and Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sony Sanjaya, emphasized that the MBG program is not only about providing nutritious food, but also about creating a multiplier effect in each region by developing local “MBG-preneurs” who utilize local food ingredients and support MSMEs in the supply chain. Collaboration between the SPPG community kitchens, farmers, fishermen, and local businesses strengthens the nutrition and economic ecosystem in the regions.
Meanwhile, the Head of the Legal and Public Relations Bureau of the BGN, Khairul Hidayati, emphasized that the MBG program’s governance must be based on clear, transparent, and accountable regulations, including strengthening SPPG guidance and public complaint channels. With this approach, the program’s sustainability is measured not only by numbers, but also by the integrity of the system and public participation.
The dynamics of implementation on the ground demonstrate that synergy is truly key. The MBG program has prioritized four main groups: preschool students through high school/equivalent, toddlers, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers. Local governments also actively conduct direct monitoring, such as in Banjar City, where they visited target schools and symbolically handed over nutritious lunch packages.
It’s undeniable that this nationwide program also faces serious challenges. The discovery of student poisoning cases after MBG, including more than 6,400 children recorded by the Indonesian Education Monitoring Network (JPPI), demanded a swift response. However, the government chose not to halt the program but instead implemented corrective system improvements.
Furthermore, the National Education Agency (BGN), along with relevant institutions, strengthened the guarantee of food safety and halal certification for free nutritious meals as part of national governance, through a memorandum of understanding with the Halal Product Guarantee Agency (BPJPH) to ensure that MBG menus also meet halal and tayib standards. This further strengthened public trust in the program and supported the achievement of the long-term vision of Golden Indonesia 2045.
In the context of the local economy, synergy is also evident in strengthening MSMEs and local farmers who serve as suppliers in the MBG ecosystem. Several analyses have cited this program as a strategy to strengthen the people’s economy in the food sector, with the allocation of raw material spending driving a multiplier effect down to the villages. The government even projects that this program can create new jobs and stimulate micro-enterprises in every region.
The synergy in the implementation of the MBG program is effective because it is supported by several important factors. First, there is solid coordination between the central and regional governments, with the central government playing a role in developing the regulatory framework and providing guidance, while the regional governments are responsible for procurement, distribution, and monitoring implementation.
Second, cross-sector integration ensures that aspects of nutrition, the economy, and public access are harmoniously integrated. Third, the active participation of the community and local MSMEs ensures that this program is not merely top-down, but rather grows from community collaboration. Fourth, well-maintained transparency and accountability are the foundation for the program to not only run quickly, but also be on-target and sustainable.
The success of the MBG program, which has reached more than 36 million beneficiaries in one year of government, demonstrates that synergy implemented with commitment can produce tangible results in a short time. This program not only focuses on food distribution but also represents a strategic investment to improve human quality, strengthen the local economy, and prepare for a brighter future for the nation. Going forward, program implementation needs to be continuously strengthened by improving sanitation standards at each SPPG (Serving Food Service Provider), monitoring halal certification and food safety, andBroader involvement of MSMEs across all regencies and cities to ensure equitable benefits across Indonesia.
The MBG program symbolizes how the current government is not only thinking short-term but also moving synergistically to create long-term impact. And with the support of all parties, strong synergy will ensure that the MBG becomes a real pillar towards a healthier, more productive, and more empowered Indonesia. Thus, the success of the MBG is proof that a government that works in harmony with the people is able to transform aspirations into action, and action into results felt by many.
*) The author is an economic observer
