Jakarta – The government continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to improving the quality of human resources through national strategic programs, one of which is the Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG). This program not only focuses on fulfilling the nutritional needs of schoolchildren but also contributes significantly to inclusive economic development, particularly through empowering MSMEs and creating new jobs.
Alfrisco, a member of Commission IX of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), emphasized that the MBG is part of the government’s systematic efforts to strengthen the nutritional quality of schoolchildren while simultaneously stimulating the people’s economic sector. He explained that countries that have implemented a similar system have succeeded in increasing educational participation and reducing stunting rates.
“Providing nutritious meals has a direct impact on increasing children’s school attendance and reducing malnutrition,” he said, referring to a 2024 World Bank study.
In line with this, Ary Santoso, Special Staff of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), stated that the MBG aims to improve the quality of community nutrition as a foundation for developing superior human resources. He emphasized that food quality is key to realizing a golden generation towards the vision of Indonesia 2045.
“The hope is that well-met nutrition will create a healthy and productive society,” he said.
The economic impact of the MBG program is also being felt in various regions. Member of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Tutik Kusuma Wardhani, during a working visit to Bali, highlighted how the MBG program is a driving force for the local economy. This program has proven to open significant opportunities for MSMEs, farmers, livestock breeders, and fishermen to be directly involved in the nutritious food supply chain.
“With more than 30,000 public kitchens or nutrition fulfillment service units (SPPG) targeted to be active throughout Indonesia, it is estimated that up to 1.5 million new jobs will be created,” explained Tutik.
BGN Expert, Ade Tias Maulana, added that the MBG program represents a concrete form of integration between improving the quality of life of the community and national economic development.
“This program ensures targeted nutrition and serves as an instrument for economic equality,” he said.
With proper implementation, the MBG program will not only produce a healthy and intelligent generation but also stimulate the people’s economy from the grassroots. This proves that nutrition policy is not merely a health issue, but an integral part of an inclusive and equitable sustainable development strategy.
