By: Devi Putri Anjani)*
The government is intensifying efforts to create economic equality through various strategic initiatives, one of which is the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program. This step is considered capable of providing a multiple impact on the economic sector while improving the quality of public health as a whole.
The MBG program does not only help people meet their daily nutritional needs, but also becomes a driving force for the local economy. Through the operation of the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) in 190 locations, the government ensures the active involvement of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and local farmers as the main suppliers of food ingredients. In this way, this program not only creates equal health, but also revives the economy of small communities.
Minister of Cooperatives and SMEs, Budi Arie Setiadi, stated that this program is able to provide a significant multiplier effect for the Indonesian economy. In the initial evaluation, MBG is projected to be able to increase economic growth by 0.8%.
In fact, the impact of the program can reach a leverage of 0.89% in 2025. This figure shows the great potential of MBG in overcoming economic inequality while substantially reducing poverty levels.
President Prabowo Subianto directed that all food ingredients used in MBG come from local products. This policy not only ensures economic sustainability, but also provides stable market opportunities for small farmers and ranchers.
The move has motivated farmers to increase production, given the presence of offtakers or regular buyers of their harvests. By involving various levels of society, MBG has created synergy between national food needs and local economic empowerment.
The program also prioritizes the purchase of crops from local farmers such as carrots, potatoes, and other vegetables. This step not only stimulates the agricultural sector but also provides a more stable income guarantee for farmers. Meanwhile, MSMEs involved in the processing and distribution of food ingredients have the opportunity to significantly expand their capacity.
A nutritionist, Anita Rahayu, said that access to nutritious food is an important foundation for economic growth. A healthy society will become a productive workforce, which ultimately has a positive impact on national economic growth. Through MBG, the government is responding to the challenge of malnutrition while creating a more productive and competitive society in the job market.
From an economic perspective, an economist from Gadjah Mada University, Budi Santoso, sees MBG as a strategy that can penetrate various sectors simultaneously. With one policy, the government not only solves the community’s nutritional problems, but also encourages local economic development.
In its implementation, several regions have integrated this program with digital technology to increase efficiency and distribution reach. Through the online platform, community needs can be mapped accurately, while logistics are managed optimally.
The MBG program also creates new job opportunities, especially for local communities involved in managing public kitchens and distributing food. The training provided to them not only improves their skills but also opens doors to other economic opportunities. Thus, the community is not only a beneficiary, but also an integral part of the success of the program.
However, the implementation of MBG is not without challenges. Funding is one of the main obstacles, considering the scale of this program. The government has allocated IDR 71 trillion from the State Budget (APBN) to support MBG.
Stronger synergy is needed between the government, the private sector, and the community to ensure the sustainability of this program. Collaboration with the private sector, for example, can be realized through food donations, additional funding, or skills training for beneficiary communities.
Another challenge lies in the coordination between the various parties involved. Therefore, careful planning and strict supervision are needed so that the program runs smoothly and efficiently.
Involving local communities as primary managers can be an effective solution in ensuring program continuity, while increasing a sense of ownership of the initiative.
The success of the MBG program has an impact that goes far beyond simply meeting nutritional needs. This program is an inclusive development model that connects various sectors, from health, agriculture, to the digital economy. With proper management, MBG has the potential to become a policy that can create real change in economic equality and the welfare of the Indonesian people.
Through MBG, the government has demonstrated its commitment to realizing a healthier and more prosperous Indonesia. With strong synergy between the government, economic actors, and the community, this program can be a real first step in overcoming economic inequality while building a brighter future for all Indonesian people.
)* The author is a Media Ambassador Contributor
