Government Intensifies Socialization of the MBG Program as a Public Nutrition Education Initiative
By: Dhita Karuniawati)*
The Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) or Free Nutritious Meal Program has become one of the government’s national priority agendas aimed at improving the quality of Indonesia’s human resources from an early age. This effort is not only about providing nutritious meals for schoolchildren and specific community groups, but also serves as an educational platform to increase public understanding of the importance of balanced nutrition in daily life. Through intensified socialization across various regions, the government hopes the program will shape sustainable healthy eating habits and help reduce malnutrition rates within society.
As the MBG program begins rolling out in multiple areas, the government recognizes that its success greatly depends on public awareness of the importance of nutrition. Therefore, socialization is being carried out massively through various channels—local governments, educational institutions, health workers, social media, and public campaigns.
The campaign materials do not focus solely on technical explanations regarding MBG distribution mechanisms, but also educate the public on basic topics such as balanced nutritional composition, daily nutrient requirements, the benefits of animal and plant-based proteins, and the importance of regular eating habits. With this educational approach, the public is expected not only to receive benefits but also actively participate in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
One of the MBG socialization activities was held in West Bandung Regency, specifically at the Batujajar Village Multipurpose Hall, Batujajar District. Residents enthusiastically welcomed the program, which has become one of the government’s priorities in enhancing the quality of Indonesia’s human resources.
The event was organized by the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) in collaboration with the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) and attended by several key figures, including Member of Commission IX DPR RI Netty Prasetiyani, Member of Commission II DPR RI for West Java Electoral District II Ahmad Heryawan, and Expert Staff from BGN’s Directorate of Nutrition Promotion and Education, Teguh Supangardi. Their presence reflected strong support for this national program targeting vulnerable groups.
Member of Commission IX DPR RI Netty Prasetiyani stated that the MBG Program was born out of deep concern over the ongoing chronic nutrition emergency in Indonesia. Stunting, she emphasized, is not only related to physical growth but also affects brain development and intelligence. The MBG Program is not only designed to provide healthy meals but also to increase public education on the importance of balanced nutrition.
Netty explained that the first 1,000 days of life are a crucial phase in which nutritional needs must be fully met. She stressed the need for a nutrition paradigm shift in society, moving away from outdated concepts. The old “4 Sehat 5 Sempurna” guideline has now transitioned into the more practical “Isi Piringku” (My Plate) guidance. With proper nutrition, she said, Indonesia is preparing a healthier, smarter generation ready to achieve the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.
Meanwhile, Member of Commission II DPR RI Ahmad Heryawan highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration in implementing the MBG Program. The program’s success is measured not only by the provision of nutritious meals but also by improvements in family resilience. Vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, toddlers, and students must become top priorities.
Ahmad Heryawan added that involving local businesses is crucial for strengthening the community’s economic structure. The MBG Program must encourage local food supply chains so that its benefits extend beyond health and contribute to economic independence. MBG is not merely a health initiative but a national movement with socio-economic impact.
At the same event, BGN representative Teguh Supangardi outlined the nutritional challenges Indonesia still faces. He highlighted high rates of stunting and dual nutrition burdens as urgent issues that require integrated solutions. The MBG Program is designed with four main principles: energy sufficiency, nutrient balance, hygiene, and food safety.
Beyond formal institutions, the government also involves community organizations, posyandu cadres, and local leaders in disseminating information about MBG. Through this community-based approach, nutrition education is expected to be more easily accepted because it is delivered by individuals familiar to the community. This approach also provides space for community participation, which is essential to ensuring that the MBG Program not only reaches the food distribution stage but also fosters long-term healthy habits.
With increasingly intensive socialization efforts, the government aims for the MBG Program to deliver not only short-term benefits by fulfilling nutritional needs but also long-term contributions in shaping a healthier Indonesian generation. Improved nutrition literacy is expected to transform public eating behavior toward more conscious and responsible choices.
The success of the MBG Program represents the success of the entire nation. The government encourages the public, educational institutions, health workers, and business actors to synergize in ensuring that every Indonesian citizen enjoys the fundamental right to nutritious food and optimal health. With strong attention to nutrition, Indonesia remains optimistic about producing a superior generation ready to compete internationally.
*) The writer is a Contributor at the Institute for Strategic Information Studies Indonesia
