By: Soraya Riza
The Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program, initiated by President Prabowo Subianto’s administration, has become a tangible step in strengthening national food security while also improving the welfare of the people. Through this policy, the government not only ensures that the nutritional needs of the population are met but also supports the growth of the local economy by utilizing domestic food resources.
National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo explained that they have contributed to supporting the MBG program by utilizing productive land to grow various types of food crops, including rice and corn. The government has shown its commitment to supporting this program by involving various parties, including the military, police, and the private sector.
The police have recruited personnel with expertise in agriculture, livestock, fisheries, public health, and nutrition. This move demonstrates a strong synergy between state institutions in supporting national food security.
In addition, the National Police Chief emphasized that the success of the military and police in various national and international agendas throughout 2024 has had a positive impact on the national economy. The multiplier effect of this success is expected to continue to be optimized in 2025 to support government programs, including MBG. The synergy and solidarity between the military and police will continue to be strengthened to achieve the great goal of Indonesia’s Golden Vision 2045.
Support for this program also comes from community organizations. Vice Chairman of Pemuda Pancasila, Bambang Soesatyo (Bamsoet), stated that Pemuda Pancasila fully supports the government’s policy in realizing food security. Food security is not only about the availability of food but also includes accessibility, sustainability of natural resources, and the availability of nutritious food. An approach that involves various sectors, from agriculture to education, is crucial in achieving this goal.
Bamsoet added that food security plays a strategic role in maintaining national economic stability. The agriculture sector, as one of the main pillars of Indonesia’s economy, is able to absorb more than 28 percent of the national workforce. With policy support like MBG, this sector is expected to improve its productivity and provide better welfare for farmers.
Furthermore, Bamsoet highlighted the importance of diversifying food sources to reduce dependency on a single commodity. Developing local food potential, such as tubers and vegetables, not only helps strengthen food security but also enhances the nutritional diversity of the population. Thus, the MBG program is expected to be a solution to the nutrition problem in society and improve the quality of life for the younger generation.
Not only that, the private sector also plays a role in supporting the MBG program. PT Berdikari, part of the ID FOOD Group, is committed to maintaining national food security through various strategic initiatives. The General Manager of Corporate Secretary & Social Responsibility at PT Berdikari, Hasbi Al-Islahi, explained that the company has developed the Garut Dorper Commercial Cross (GDCC) F2 sheep as an alternative national meat source. This breed has the advantage of fast weight gain and resistance to diseases, making it a solution to increase meat supply in Indonesia.
In addition, PT Berdikari is expanding its market share to Eastern Indonesia through strategic cooperation with PT Pelni in providing food raw materials. This collaboration shows that the private sector can play an important role in supporting government programs to ensure the availability of sufficient and nutritious food for the population.
The steps taken by various parties demonstrate that the MBG program is not just a social policy but also part of a broader national development strategy. With the synergy between the government, society, and the private sector, this program is expected to bring sustainable benefits to all segments of society.
The success of this program is not only measured by the number of beneficiaries but also by its impact on the local economy. By involving farmers, livestock breeders, and fishermen in food provision, MBG provides significant economic opportunities for communities in various regions. This is in line with the government’s efforts to encourage inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
Through collaboration involving the government, state institutions, community organizations, and the private sector, the Free Nutritious Meal program is not just a social policy but also an integral part of sustainable national development. By maintaining food security and improving the nutritional quality of the population, Indonesia is becoming more prepared to face future global challenges. Tangible steps like this form an important foundation in realizing the great goal of a healthy, strong, and prosperous Indonesia towards the Golden Year 2045. The government firmly demonstrates that efforts to achieve food independence are a shared responsibility that must continue to be fought for.
If this commitment continues to be carried out consistently, Indonesia will be able to face increasingly complex global challenges, including threats of food crises and climate change. The MBG program proves that with solid cooperation among various elements of the nation, the great goal of a prosperous Indonesia can be realized.
*) The author is a contributor to Jendela Baca Nusantara.
