Collaboration Between Central Government and Local Governments to Enhance the Implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG)
Jakarta – Collaboration between the central government and regional governments is a key element that cannot be overlooked in the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG).
Member of Commission IX of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Asep Romy Romaya, emphasized that the collaboration between local governments and the central government must continue to ensure the MBG program can be carried out effectively.
“We continue to encourage coordination with the local governments, the legislative body, and the central government so that the Free Nutritious Meal Program can be realized effectively,” said Asep.
This synergy is essential to ensure that the planning, funding, distribution, and oversight of the MBG program are done in an integrated manner, tailored to the needs and conditions of each region.
“The BGN kitchens can also absorb the local workforce and reduce unemployment, as each district can address the unemployment issue,” Asep added.
Meanwhile, Minister of Home Affairs, Tito Karnavian, highlighted that local governments are actively supporting the MBG program by allocating funding from their Regional Budget (APBD). Tito pointed out that this support is expected to have a positive impact on the electability of regional leaders.
“Local governments are very enthusiastic about supporting this free nutritious meal program. We know that, aside from improving health, it will also stimulate economic growth in the regions,” Tito said.
Tito also mentioned that he had communicated with regional secretaries (Sekda), who have already allocated funds for the MBG program in their APBD. The total amount is expected to reach Rp 2.3 trillion in 2025.
“For 2025, local government contributions to this program are expected to reach around Rp 2.3 trillion. Since the program will start in September, the regional heads will shift their budgets or amend the APBD after being inaugurated,” he added.
Tito further explained that this initiative comes from the individual efforts of each regional leader. He also revealed that the regional leaders have a vested interest in their involvement in this program initiated by President Prabowo Subianto.
With the continued enhancement of cooperation, the hope of realizing the Golden Generation 2045 is no longer just a dream, but an ambition that is gradually being realized. The central and regional governments, working hand in hand, are building the nation’s future, one nutritious meal at a time for each Indonesian child, every day.
