Jakarta – The MBG Program continues to show significant progress through the expansion of its distribution network, which now reaches various border regions. This effort is part of the government’s commitment to ensuring equal access for all citizens to the benefits of the program, including those living in the outermost, remote, and underdeveloped areas.
The expansion of MBG into border regions also carries strategic importance in strengthening the social and economic resilience of local communities. The presence of this program helps support the welfare stability of residents living at the nation’s frontlines, thereby reinforcing their sense of security and connection with the central government.
Minister of Trade Budi Santoso called on local governments (Pemda) to oversee and safeguard the supply of materials for the MBG program.
“The free nutritious meal program, MBG, has now started to grow significantly and continues to expand. Therefore, we ask regional leaders to safeguard the program so that it runs smoothly,” Budi said during the 2025 Consumer Protection Award event at his office in Central Jakarta.
In addition, the expanded distribution coverage of MBG also helps stimulate local economic activity. With a more stable supply, communities in border areas have greater opportunities to carry out productive activities without disruptions caused by limited essential resources.
This positive development was warmly welcomed by Abdul Latif Husainul Ahmad, a representative of the Miftahul Hidayah Islamic Boarding School Foundation in Balaikarangan, Sanggau Regency, Entikong. He stated that the program has had a direct impact, as all daily activities and meal needs of the students are provided within the boarding school around the clock.
“Alhamdulillah, previously the students might have only eaten chicken a few times a week, but now they can enjoy it almost every day with delicious side dishes,” he said.
Abdul Latif expressed his appreciation to the government for its attention to religious educational institutions in border areas. He stated that the program has successfully strengthened food security and the students’ welfare in a sustainable manner.
“We express our deepest gratitude to the government for this program, especially to the President, Mr. Prabowo Subianto,” he added.
On the other hand, strengthening coordination between the central and local governments remains crucial to ensuring effective distribution. Local governments play an essential role as the implementing arm of the program on the ground.
Meanwhile, according to Deputy Minister of Finance Suahasil Nazara, as of November 18, the program has been distributed to around 41.9 million recipients. Out of the total budget of Rp 71 trillion, 58.2% of the priority MBG budget has been realized, equivalent to Rp 41.3 trillion.
“As for budget realization, Rp 41.3 trillion has already been disbursed. This means around 58% of the state budget allocation of Rp 71 trillion has been realized,” Deputy Minister of Finance Suahasil Nazara stated during the November 2025 edition of the APBN KiTa Press Conference at the Ministry of Finance Office, Central Jakarta.