Jakarta – The government reaffirms its commitment to implementing the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program by ensuring that the food provided is safe, free from contamination, and nutritionally balanced. This program is a strategic effort to improve the quality of Indonesia’s human resources by enhancing the nutrition of children and vulnerable groups.
President Prabowo Subianto stated that the budget per meal portion in the MBG program has been adjusted to ensure efficiency without compromising nutritional quality.
“We aim for Rp 15,000 per portion, but the budget of around Rp 10,000 in certain regions is considered sufficient, providing good quality and nutritious meals,” said President Prabowo.
Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, reported that the MBG program has reached more than 3.5 million beneficiaries across Indonesia.
“The Free Nutritious Meals program is currently being implemented at 1,286 Nutrition Service Units (SPPG) in 38 provinces, serving 3,506,941 beneficiaries,” Dadan Hindayana said.
To ensure the quality and benefits of the program on the ground, Yovan Iristian from the Ministry of Law and Human Rights conducted monitoring at SMK Negeri 48 Jakarta.
“We want to ensure that the Free Nutritious Meals program runs properly and truly benefits the students. The meals provided also have good and balanced nutrition,” said Yovan Iristian.
Deputy Minister of the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture, Budiono, emphasized the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders in implementing the MBG program.
“All Free Nutritious Meal programs must involve collaboration among related stakeholders so that they can be converged comprehensively and integrated,” explained Budiono.
The government is also working with the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) and local Health Offices to conduct regular inspections and supervision to ensure the safety and quality of the meals provided.
The Indonesian Ombudsman will oversee the budget and standard operating procedures (SOP) of MBG managing foundations in 34 provinces to prevent any issues in the program’s implementation.
“Our agency will ensure that all standard operating procedures have been properly implemented in 34 provinces,” said Yeka Hendra Fatika, member of the Indonesian Ombudsman.
The MBG program is expected not only to reduce stunting and malnutrition rates but also to foster healthy eating habits from an early age. The government invites the public to support and monitor the program’s implementation for a healthier and smarter Indonesia’s future.
