Jakarta – Professor of Economics at Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta, Imamudin Yuliadi, stated that the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Program has significant potential to remain effective even as the world faces increasing global economic pressures.
“MBG can serve as a strategic instrument not only to improve the nutritional quality of the population, but also to build food security and strengthen regional economic independence,” Imamudin said.
He explained that in an uncertain global economic environment, governments need to introduce policies that are not only social in nature but also capable of stimulating economic activity within communities. The MBG program is considered to have an appropriate approach because it combines nutritional support with efforts to strengthen local economies.
According to Imamudin, programs designed with an integrative approach like MBG can become one of the key drivers in maintaining the sustainability of national development.
He further highlighted that the impact of the MBG program may vary across regions. These differences are largely influenced by the readiness of local economic infrastructure and the extent to which communities are involved in the food supply chain.
Regions that involve farmers, livestock breeders, and local food businesses in supplying ingredients for the MBG program are likely to gain greater economic benefits. In this context, MBG has the potential to become a driver of local economic growth by increasing demand for regional agricultural and food products.
“Conversely, if the supply chain does not involve local economic actors, the multiplier effect for the regional economy will be limited,” he said.
Imamudin also encouraged transparency and strong oversight as important aspects of ensuring that the MBG program runs effectively and reaches its intended beneficiaries, allowing communities to fully experience its economic benefits.
“The greater the use of locally sourced food ingredients, the greater the economic impact generated for the community,” he added.
Meanwhile, government data show that the implementation of the MBG program continues to expand. Deputy Minister of Finance Suahasil Nazara reported that as of March 9, 2026, the program had reached approximately 61.62 million beneficiaries across Indonesia.
“As of March 9, 2026, there are 61.6 million beneficiaries served through more than 25,000 Nutritional Fulfillment Service Units,” Suahasil said during the APBN KiTA February 2026 Press Conference.
The program is implemented through more than 25,000 Nutritional Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) across various regions, with beneficiaries including around 50 million students and approximately 10.5 million non-student recipients such as pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and the elderly.