Jakarta — The government continues to expand and strengthen the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals Program (MBG) as one of the national priority agendas aimed at improving the nutritional quality of the population while simultaneously creating massive job opportunities across various regions. As part of the President’s Asta Cita framework, this program has proven to deliver positive impacts not only on public health but also on local economic growth through job creation and supply chain activity.
Chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin), Anindya Novyan Bakrie, emphasized that the construction of the Nutritional Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) has been carried out entirely without banking credit assistance. He stated that this demonstrates the seriousness and capability of the MBG program in operating on a strong and independent foundation.
“The budget used to build the SPPG came without any banking credit assistance. And each kitchen employs 50 workers. That means 50 workers multiplied by 500 is 25,000. We are proud of that,” Anindya said.
He added that the MBG program’s success in absorbing around 25,000 workers is clear evidence that the program not only addresses the nutritional needs of the population but also acts as an engine for regional economic growth. He noted that despite various recent dynamics and issues, the program continues to show solid performance and widespread benefits.
Meanwhile, data from various regions also confirms similar success. The Regional Office of the Directorate General of Treasury (DJPb) of Central Kalimantan (Kalteng) reported that the MBG implementation in the province has been effective and has had a direct impact on job creation.
“For the MBG Program in Central Kalimantan, as of 10 November 2025, a total of 58 active SPPG units have absorbed 1,856 workers and mobilized 233 suppliers,” stated Head of the DJPb Regional Office for Central Kalimantan, Herry Hernawan.
The large-scale absorption of workers across regions shows that MBG is not merely a social assistance program, but an inclusive development instrument that strengthens the economic structure of local communities. The presence of hundreds of SPPG units, involving thousands of workers, raw material suppliers, and local businesses, has created a new and sustainable economic ecosystem.
The government ensures that the MBG Program will continue to be expanded and improved in terms of supply chain management, service kitchen quality, and workforce capacity development. Through strengthened collaboration with the business sector and local communities, the MBG Program is expected to become one of the key drivers of national development, improving welfare and supporting Indonesia’s economic resilience.