The Chairman of the Association of Indonesian Business Supporters of the Free Nutritional Meals Program (APPMBGI), Abdul Rivai Ras, emphasized that MBG management requires a much higher level of precision than other national programs. “Even elections, despite being held repeatedly, still require constant evaluation and refinement. MBG must be more precise because it concerns daily nutritional intake, which directly impacts the growth and development of children and the nation’s future generations,” he said.
According to him, the complexity of the MBG program lies in the consistent provision of healthy food every day with measurable nutritional standards. This makes multi-layered supervision a crucial element in its implementation. With an approach based on nutrition and public health sciences, MBG is believed to be able to reduce stunting rates, improve children’s concentration in learning, and strengthen long-term health.
However, Rivai Ras emphasized that a major transformation like this cannot be achieved instantly. “Collective patience, a scientific, data-driven approach, and a continuous improvement mechanism are required for this program to run optimally,” he explained.
As a form of strengthening governance, APPMBGI is encouraging the formation of an Independent Assistance Team tasked with overseeing program implementation in conjunction with the National Nutrition Agency (BGN). This team is expected to provide research-based recommendations, an accurate monitoring system, and cross-sectoral technical solutions. “APPMBGI is ready to actively contribute and provide full support when needed. Cross-sector collaboration between the government, business actors, academics, and civil society is key to the success of this program,” he emphasized.
Meanwhile, Professor of Community Nutrition from the Bogor Agricultural Institute, Prof. Hardinsyah, assessed that the success of the MBG program is largely determined by consistent food quality monitoring and targeted distribution. “The nutritious food program will only be effective if the quality of food ingredients, processing, and distribution are closely and continuously monitored. Without this, the impact will not be optimal,” he said.
He also added that the integration of national child nutrition data is a crucial factor in ensuring precise interventions. “A data-driven approach allows the government to conduct rapid evaluations and continuous improvements, so that this program truly has a tangible impact on reducing stunting,” he added.
Concluding his statement, Rivai Ras reminded that the MBG is a long-term investment for the nation. “Indonesia’s future depends heavily on what we provide for our children today. Let us manage it with patience, precision, and a strong spirit of mutual cooperation,” he concluded.