Gibran reaffirms governance reforms for MBG and KDMP programs

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka said the government would strengthen oversight of the Free Nutritious Meals Program (MBG) and Red and White Village/Subdistrict Cooperatives (KDMP) to ensure public funds are used effectively and benefit communities.

“The government is committed to improving the governance of MBG and KDMP to ensure that every rupiah truly delivers benefits to the people,” Gibran said in an official statement received in Jakarta on Wednesday.

He said the reforms were intended to make the implementation of both programs more targeted, effective, and efficient, while preventing corrupt practices.

“These measures are important for maintaining public trust and strengthening the government's fiscal capacity, which in turn can enhance market confidence in the national economy,” Gibran said.

The government had previously announced plans to improve the governance of the MBG program following the appointment of a new leadership team at the National Nutrition Agency (BGN).

The government has previously said it would improve oversight of the Free Nutritious Meals program following the appointment of a new leadership team at the National Nutrition Agency (BGN).

The agency is also reviewing the management of its Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG), which support the meal program. Deputy BGN Head Agustina Arumsari said on Monday that BGN employees would be barred from owning or operating SPPG units to avoid conflicts of interest.

Separately, Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono said about 40,000 KDMP could begin operating by the end of 2026 as the government accelerates the development of supporting infrastructure across the country.

Juliantono emphasized that the development of the Red and White Village Cooperatives would continue.

“However, operationalization requires a qualitative approach. It must be based on feasibility studies, as emphasized by the House of Representatives. These village cooperatives must be profitable and financially sustainable. Therefore, a qualitative approach is also necessary,” he said.

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Translator: Prisca Triferna, Kuntum Khaira Riswan

Editor: Azis Kurmala

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