MBG Embodying the Spirit of the Youth Pledge: A Healthy, Intelligent, and Independent Young Generation
Jakarta – The government, through the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program, has affirmed its commitment to preparing a healthy, intelligent, and independent young generation, in line with the spirit of the Youth Pledge.
This program, initiated in January 2025, is a milestone in the government’s success in strengthening the foundations of community welfare and simultaneously driving regional economic growth.
In his introduction to the Plenary Cabinet Session (SKP) at the State Palace, President Prabowo Subianto highlighted the multiplier effect of the MBG program on the economy. This program partners nearly 18,895 MSMEs, cooperatives, and village-owned enterprises (BUMDes) in the food supply chain. The MBG program even received international recognition from the Rockefeller Institute.
“Every dollar spent on the MBG program yields a return of between five and thirty-seven dollars. This is at least five times the economic impact,” Prabowo emphasized.
The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, stated that the MBG program has reached 36,773,520 people, including preschool children, elementary and high school students, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers. More than 12,500 Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) are active throughout Indonesia.
“Each SPPG plays a vital role as a community kitchen that processes and distributes nutritious food with strict safety and hygiene standards,” said Dadan.
The MBG program has also become a driving force for the local economy. The presence of thousands of food and logistics suppliers has created new opportunities for MSMEs, while derivative industries such as food tray, cutlery, and kitchen equipment manufacturers have also flourished.
“MBG is fostering a new entrepreneurial ecosystem and expanding job opportunities, especially in the 3T regions,” he added.
In terms of governance, BGN emphasizes the principles of transparency, accountability, and targeted targeting. Khairul Hidayati, Head of the BGN Legal and Public Relations Bureau, stated that every transaction is conducted through a virtual account, which can only be disbursed after the approval of both parties. This is useful to prevent misuse of funds.
In addition, BGN also ensures that each SPPG kitchen meets food safety standards and maximizes distribution to ensure food remains fit for consumption.
“We are also actively providing guidance to SPPGs in the regions to ensure that kitchen management and food distribution meet food safety standards,” Hida said.
With this success, the MBG program is not just about fulfilling nutritional needs, but also a concrete manifestation of the spirit of the Youth Pledge, which aims to produce a healthy, intelligent, and independent young generation. From children to pregnant women, every MBG beneficiary receives a strong foundation for optimal growth, while also boosting the local economy.
The MBG program demonstrates that the government’s concern for the younger generation and the fulfillment of national nutrition can synergize with economic growth, proving that Indonesia is moving forward, inclusively, and sustainably.
