Jakarta – The government continues to demonstrate its strong commitment to improving the quality of human resources through national strategic programs, one of which is the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Program. This program not only focuses on meeting the nutritional needs of school children but also plays a significant role in promoting inclusive economic development, particularly through empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and creating new jobs.
Member of Commission IX of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Alfrisco, emphasized that MBG is part of the government’s systematic effort to strengthen children’s nutritional quality while simultaneously stimulating the people’s economy. He explained that countries implementing similar programs have succeeded in increasing school participation rates and reducing stunting.
“Providing nutritious meals has a direct impact on improving children’s school attendance and reducing malnutrition,” he said, citing a 2024 World Bank study.
Similarly, Ary Santoso, Special Staff of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), stated that MBG is designed to improve the community’s nutritional quality as the foundation for developing superior human resources. He stressed that food quality is key to realizing the golden generation envisioned in Indonesia 2045.
“The hope is that proper nutrition will create a healthy and productive society,” he said.
The economic impact of the MBG program is also being felt directly in various regions. Member of DPR RI, Tutik Kusuma Wardhani, during a working visit to Bali, highlighted how MBG has become a driving force for the local economy. The program has opened significant opportunities for MSME players, farmers, livestock breeders, and fishermen to participate directly in the nutritious food supply chain.
“With more than 30,000 public kitchens or Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) targeted to operate across Indonesia, it is estimated that up to 1.5 million new jobs will be created,” Tutik explained.
Ade Tias Maulana, an expert at BGN, added that MBG is a concrete example of integrating improvements in quality of life with national economic development.
“This program ensures targeted nutrition while also serving as an instrument for economic equity,” he stated.
With proper implementation, the MBG Program will not only produce a healthy and intelligent generation but also drive grassroots economic growth. This proves that nutrition policy is not merely a health issue but an integral part of a sustainable, inclusive, and equitable development strategy.
