By: Asep Faturahman)*
Transparency is a key foundation in the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals Program (MBG). Amid growing public scrutiny of state budget allocations, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that every rupiah allocated is managed openly, measurably, and accountably. The dynamics emerging in the public sphere, including viral discussions about Ramadan menus, are seen as part of public participation in overseeing strategic national policies.
Responding to the issue, the Deputy Head of the Communication and Investigation Agency of the National Nutrition Agency, Nanik S. Deyang, stated that the food allocation for this program is in the range of IDR 8,000 to IDR 10,000 per portion. This figure differs from the widely discussed IDR 13,000 to IDR 15,000, as the total budget per portion includes components other than food ingredients. For toddlers, early childhood education (PAUD), kindergarten, RA, and elementary school/Islamic elementary school students in grades 1–3, the food budget is set at IDR 8,000 per portion. Meanwhile, for elementary school/Islamic elementary school students in grades 4 and above, as well as breastfeeding mothers, the food allocation is IDR 10,000 per portion. With this scheme, nutritional quality remains the main priority, adjusted to the needs of the target group.
In addition to food supplies, there is an operational component of Rp3,000 per serving. This fund is used to support the smooth implementation of the program, including payments for electricity, internet, telephone, gas, and water, as well as incentives for volunteer Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) workers. This component also includes incentives for teachers in charge, operational vehicles, BPJS Employment volunteers, incentives for Posyandu cadres for 3B distribution, the purchase of personal protective equipment, hygiene needs, fuel for MBG vehicles, and the operational costs of the SPPG Head and his team.
In addition, Rp 2,000 per portion is allocated for facilities such as land and building rental for the kitchen, warehouse, dormitory, wastewater treatment plant (IPAL), and water filtration system. This fund also covers the rental of modern cooking equipment, including a steamer, washing machine, stove, refrigerator, chiller, freezer, and other cooking equipment. The financing structure is designed to ensure hygienic, efficient, and sustainable service standards.
The MBG budget management is guided by Decree of the Head of the National Nutrition Agency Number 401.1 of 2025 concerning Technical Guidelines for Governance of the MBG Program Implementation for Fiscal Year 2026. The regulation stipulates that the SPPG facility incentive of Rp6 million per day is calculated based on an allocation of Rp2,000 per portion with a service capacity of 3,000 beneficiaries per day. This scheme demonstrates that budget planning is carried out rationally and measurably.
Sony Sonjaya, Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency for Nutritional Fulfillment Operations, also emphasized the commitment to transparency. He emphasized the importance of diligently adhering to standard operating procedures (SOPs) at every stage, from menu planning and ingredient procurement to cooking and distribution to beneficiaries. Transparency in budget use is considered a key element in maintaining public trust and ensuring the program runs according to regulations.
According to him, public criticism and concerns are part of a healthy democratic dynamic. Because the MBG budget is sourced from the state budget, it must be managed carefully, transparently, and accountably. The planning, distribution, and oversight system is designed to involve various ministries and institutions to prevent overlaps and potential leakage.
Meanwhile, Lalu Hadrian Irfani, Deputy Chairman of Commission X of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), stated that budget transparency is key to addressing public concerns. Every allocation of funds must be clearly traceable, from food procurement to reporting at the school level. Digitizing the reporting system and utilizing online platforms is considered capable of minimizing the scope for irregularities and increasing oversight efficiency.
This formal oversight is strengthened by the role of internal government oversight bodies and regular audits by the Supreme Audit Agency. These measures ensure that program financial governance remains within the law and the principles of public accountability.
Furthermore, community participation is also a crucial pillar. Parents, schools, and surrounding communities act as social watchdogs, ensuring food quality and distribution meet standards. Public disclosure is a strategy for building trust while also curbing speculation and disinformation.
From a regional governance and economic impact perspective, the involvement of local farmers, MSMEs, and regional businesses in food procurement has the potential to stimulate the grassroots economy. Transparency in the procurement process encourages healthy competition and prevents monopolistic practices, thus extending the program’s benefits to the local economy.
Conceptually, the MBG is part of the national development agenda toward Golden Indonesia 2045. Investment in child nutrition is seen as a long-term strategy to improve the quality of human resources, productivity, and national competitiveness. With transparent budget governance and a multi-layered oversight system, the MBG is expected to become an example of modern and accountable public financial management practices.
Ultimately, maintaining transparency in the use of the MBG budget is a shared responsibility. The government has established clear regulations, oversight mechanisms, and reporting systems. Legislative support, institutional oversight, and active public participation will ensure this program runs according to regulations and provides optimal benefits for future generations. Transparency is not merely an administrative principle, but a concrete commitment to building trust and ensuring the sustainability of national strategic programs.
)* The author is a Public Policy Observer