*) By: Alfian Ferry
The Free Nutritious Meals Program (MBG) has become one of the government’s strategic policies in strengthening the quality of human resources from an early age. The program is designed to ensure that schoolchildren receive adequate nutritional intake to support their growth, development, and learning capacity. Amid global economic challenges and pressure on people’s purchasing power, MBG is viewed as a concrete form of state intervention that directly addresses the basic needs of the population. However, as is common with large-scale national programs, public concerns have emerged regarding the size of the allocated budget and the potential for irregularities in its implementation.
The Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency, Soni Sonjaya, emphasized the importance of strict adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and transparency in implementing the MBG program. He stressed that every stage of the program—from menu planning, procurement of raw materials, cooking processes, to distribution to beneficiaries—has clear SOPs that must be followed with discipline.
He noted that most prominent incidents in the field generally occur due to negligence in complying with established procedures. In addition, Soni reiterated the program’s budget provisions: Rp15,000 per portion for general beneficiaries and Rp13,000 per portion for smaller groups such as toddlers and kindergarten children. Transparency in budget utilization remains a crucial aspect of the program’s execution.
Such concerns should be understood as part of the dynamics of a democratic society that remains critical of state spending. The MBG budget, sourced from the State Budget (APBN), must indeed be managed carefully, transparently, and accountably. The government recognizes that the program’s legitimacy depends not only on its benefits but also on clean and open financial governance. Therefore, systems for planning, distribution, and oversight have been designed to involve multiple ministries and institutions to prevent overlaps and potential leakages.
Conceptually, MBG does not stand alone but is integrated into the national development agenda to create a superior generation toward Indonesia Emas 2045. Investment in child nutrition is viewed as a long-term investment that will affect productivity, public health, and national competitiveness. Numerous studies indicate that malnutrition during school age can reduce learning concentration and ultimately impact the quality of human resources in the future. Thus, MBG is not merely a social assistance program but a development strategy with broad economic and strategic dimensions.
The Vice Chairman of Commission X of the House of Representatives, Lalu Hadrian Irfani, stated that budget transparency is the primary key to addressing public concerns. The government must ensure that every rupiah allocated can be traced in its usage—from food procurement and distribution to reporting at the school level. The digitalization of reporting systems and the use of online platforms to monitor budget realization are important steps to minimize opportunities for mismanagement. Meanwhile, the involvement of internal government supervisory bodies and routine audits by the Badan Pemeriksa Keuangan will further strengthen program accountability.
Beyond formal supervision, public participation also plays a significant role in maintaining transparency. Parents, school administrators, and surrounding communities can act as social overseers to ensure that the quality and distribution of meals comply with established standards. When the public is granted adequate access to information regarding budgets and implementation mechanisms, space for speculation and disinformation can be reduced. Public information disclosure is not merely an administrative obligation but a strategy for building trust.
The Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Bima Arya Sugiarto, explained another important aspect to consider: the economic multiplier effect of the MBG program. The procurement of food supplies involving local farmers, MSMEs, and regional businesses has the potential to stimulate economic activity at the grassroots level. Transparency in the procurement process will encourage fair competition and prevent monopolistic practices. If well designed, MBG will not only improve children’s nutrition but also simultaneously strengthen food security and local economies.
Of course, implementation challenges cannot be overlooked. Indonesia’s vast territory and diverse regional conditions require adaptive and efficient distribution systems. This underscores the importance of periodic evaluations and continuous improvements based on data. The government must remain open to corrections if weaknesses are identified in the field. An open attitude toward criticism will, in fact, enhance the program’s quality and demonstrate a genuine commitment to good governance.
Ultimately, MBG should be seen as a manifestation of the state’s commitment to the future of the younger generation. Public concerns about the budget are natural, but they can be addressed through consistent and accountable transparency practices. With strong oversight systems, active community participation, and clear political commitment, this program has the potential to become a crucial foundation in building a healthy, intelligent, and competitive Indonesia. Transparency is not merely a complement, but the main pillar ensuring that MBG truly delivers its benefits and earns broad public support.
*) The author is a Contributor to the Indonesian Strategic Information Studies Institute
