By: Dhita Karuniawati
The Prabowo-Gibran administration is actively implementing the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program across various regions. This initiative aims to improve public access to quality food and nutrition, fostering a healthy, active, and productive generation in pursuit of Indonesia Emas 2045. The government is collaborating with Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to ensure the program’s success.
The government has prepared three main schemes for MSMEs involved in MBG to ensure its effectiveness and sustainability. The first scheme focuses on strengthening management and production quality for MSME entrepreneurs participating in MBG.
Minister of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, Maman Abdurrahman, stated that this aspect would be subject to monitoring and evaluation by the Ministry of MSMEs to ensure proper organization and operational management.
The second scheme concerns financing. In line with the budget mechanism set by the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), the Ministry of MSMEs is also anticipating challenges in the budget realization process.
Maman explained that his ministry understands the administrative steps required, including audits, which may affect MSMEs’ working capital flow. Therefore, they have coordinated with state-owned banks (Himbara) to provide bridging financing schemes for MSMEs.
The third scheme focuses on building a sustainable business ecosystem. Minister Maman emphasized that the MBG program not only creates short-term economic opportunities but also fosters one of the largest business ecosystems within the MSME sector. In addition to industries like handicrafts and fashion, the food sector is now emerging as a key area with vast and sustainable business potential.
The MBG program has a multiplier effect on the national economy, particularly in boosting the growth of MSMEs in the food sector. By stimulating economic activity and creating new business opportunities, Indonesia is establishing a new food sector business ecosystem. Nearly all aspects of the MBG supply chain involve MSMEs, from upstream to downstream.
Additionally, Minister Maman highlighted the potential for establishing the “Center of Excellence for the Free Nutritious Meal Program” at the IPB University campus in Dramaga, Bogor.
He noted that collaboration with universities for research holds great promise in supporting MSMEs in the food and agricultural sectors. From a commercialization standpoint, this initiative presents business opportunities for universities to engage in various sectors.
Maman affirmed that the Ministry of MSMEs is highly open to collaboration, including with IPB and other universities, in leveraging research laboratories for food and agriculture development.
The National Food Agency (NFA) is also actively promoting partnerships with businesses to support President Prabowo’s flagship initiative, MBG, under the Quick Best Results Program (PHTC).
NFA Head, Arief Prasetyo Adi, stated that synergy between the government and the private sector is key to the success of MBG. He invited businesses from the food industry, retail sector, and MSMEs to contribute to providing nutritious food for the public, ensuring equitable and high-quality food access.
The MBG program is a top priority for President Prabowo Subianto, targeting 85 million children and pregnant women across Indonesia. Beyond its health benefits, MBG is expected to contribute to the government’s goal of achieving 8% economic growth.
Founder of the “Kami UMKM” organization, Muhammad Arbani, expressed confidence that the 8% economic growth target can be achieved through MSMEs. He stressed that MBG must be safeguarded as it presents a significant opportunity for credible MSMEs to be massively involved in government programs.
Arbani also believes the government has devised the best strategies to involve MSMEs in MBG, from public outreach efforts to policy-making, ensuring a smooth integration of MSMEs. He stated that data-driven problem-solving enables the government to quickly mitigate challenges and optimize program execution.
Kami UMKM is actively conducting outreach to rural MSMEs involved in MBG, reinforcing its commitment to supporting the government’s initiative.
The National Nutrition Agency (BGN), as the lead sector for MBG, continues to enhance collaboration with local governments at the provincial and district/city levels. Partnerships with the private sector, farmers, livestock breeders, and local communities are also being strengthened to ensure sustainable food provision.
Furthermore, the government will continuously monitor and evaluate the MBG program to ensure its effectiveness. Through BGN and regional representatives, efforts are being made to intensify public education and awareness campaigns on balanced and sustainable nutrition.
With a well-focused, well-managed policy that engages multiple stakeholders, MBG is expected to contribute significantly to public welfare and national food security. Therefore, it is crucial to collectively oversee the program’s implementation to ensure it reaches all regions of Indonesia as planned. Ongoing support and appreciation from all parties will be vital for the smooth and successful execution of MBG.
*) The author is a Contributor to the Indonesian Institute for Strategic Information Studies
