Jakarta – Public acceptance of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program is showing an increasingly positive trend. Several recent studies indicate that the program not only contributes to meeting students’ nutritional needs but also helps ease the economic burden on families while stimulating local economic activity.
These findings are reflected in research conducted by the Center for Sociological Studies, University of Indonesia (LabSosio UI) released in March 2026, as well as a study from the Research Institute of Socio-Economic Development(RISED). Both institutions noted that the MBG program has generated significant social and economic impacts, particularly for middle- to lower-income communities.
The Head of LabSosio-LPPSP FISIP UI, Hari Nugroho, explained that the majority of parents who participated as respondents gave positive assessments because the program helps reduce daily household expenses.
“For parents who are busy working in the morning, this program becomes a practical solution that ensures their children do not go hungry and continue to have access to nutritious food at school,” Hari said.
Furthermore, with the implementation of the MBG program, around 85.8 percent of students were recorded to always finish the meals provided at school. This finding shows that the program is not only well received but is also genuinely utilized by the students.
Meanwhile, Public Policy expert from Trisakti University, Trubus Rahardiansyah, assessed that the growing public acceptance indicates that the MBG program is beginning to gain momentum. Over time, improvements in implementation mechanisms and distribution systems have made the program increasingly accepted by the public.
“MBG initially faced some resistance. However, it is now gradually being accepted by the community, and the services continue to improve, including support from the health sector,” said Trubus.
Furthermore, Trubus emphasized that the impact of the MBG program goes beyond social and health aspects, as it also contributes to strengthening the local economy. Demand for food ingredients such as vegetables, eggs, and other food products has increased as the number of program beneficiaries continues to grow.
“This condition ultimately helps drive economic circulation at the regional level and expands business opportunities for MSME actors,” he added.
With these findings, the MBG program is increasingly seen as a relevant public policy with multidimensional impacts. In addition to strengthening the fulfillment of schoolchildren’s nutritional needs, the program also provides social protection for families and creates a multiplier effect on local economic activity.