By: Arman Panggabean
The Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) program is increasingly recognized as a vital initiative demonstrating that improving nutrition can serve as a foundation for family welfare and the nation’s future. This program deserves public attention—not only for understanding its impact but also for collective support as a large-scale movement aimed at building a stronger Indonesian generation.
At first glance, MBG is more than a food distribution initiative. It is a long-term strategy that integrates health, education, and local economic empowerment. Understanding this broader perspective highlights why MBG is crucial for family welfare and Indonesia’s 2045 vision of a golden generation.
Anggota Komisi VI DPR RI, Kawendra Lukistian, emphasized MBG as a concrete government effort to enhance human resources from an early age. He noted that fulfilling balanced nutrition is not only a biological necessity but a long-term investment in the nation’s future. Children who receive adequate nutrition are more likely to grow into intelligent, productive, and competitive adults. Kawendra stressed the link between health and education, with nutrition as the foundational pillar.
Kawendra also highlighted the importance of public participation. For him, community support for MBG reflects care for the nation and its next generation. The program is not just about providing meals—it is a large-scale movement toward Indonesia’s Golden Generation 2045. Active involvement from parents, communities, schools, and pesantren administrators is critical to ensure that MBG reaches children in need.
The National Nutrition Agency (Badan Gizi Nasional) has reinforced this perspective. Suhaidi, Head of Administration at KPPG Jember, explained that MBG is part of President Prabowo Subianto’s Asta Cita vision to nurture healthy, strong, and future-ready generations. Beyond distributing nutritious meals, MBG also stimulates local economic opportunities. By involving local production kitchens, staff, and sourcing ingredients from the community, the program generates economic circulation benefiting local residents while ensuring sustainability.
From a scientific standpoint, Doddy Izwardy, Chair of the Indonesian Nutrition Experts Association (Persagi), stressed that MBG’s nutritional standards are professionally guided. Experts from Persagi contributed technical recommendations, ensuring menus meet the dietary needs of children. Quality control is rigorous—from selecting ingredients to processing, packaging, and school distribution—to guarantee food safety and effectiveness.
Doddy noted that MBG also functions as an educational tool, cultivating healthy eating habits from an early age. Children who previously avoided vegetables or healthy foods are now more willing to try them in an engaging school environment. Peer influence plays an important role, similar to social dynamics in Posyandu (community health posts), encouraging children to adopt healthier eating patterns.
Amid national challenges like economic disparity and educational gaps, MBG provides a simple yet transformative solution. By addressing nutrition, the program has a profound impact on children’s development and overall societal wellbeing. Public awareness and support are crucial to ensure MBG not only continues but also expands its reach and benefits.
Ultimately, MBG represents a strategic step toward fostering a healthier, stronger, and more competitive young generation. With active participation from all stakeholders, family welfare and the nation’s future can be built from the simple yet powerful act of providing nutritious meals to Indonesia’s children.
Social Policy Analyst – Madani Institute
