Indonesia weighs school canteens to deliver free meal program

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is studying the possibility of involving school canteens as an alternative method for implementing the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program.

This follows directives from President Prabowo Subianto to evaluate and improve the distribution scheme of the nationwide nutritional initiative.

BGN Deputy Head Agustina Arumsari stated in Jakarta on Wednesday that the president has opened the door to alternative implementation schemes beyond meals being provided by the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) or MBG kitchens.

"The president said to go ahead and study other alternatives if they are available," Agustina told reporters at the Presidential Palace Complex.

She explained that current regulations still refer to Presidential Regulation No. 115, which mandates that the MBG program be implemented through the SPPG units.

According to her, the president requested that any alternatives be backed by solid research and assessment before a final government decision is made.

"Once again, he asked that every policy option be thoroughly evaluated—what the basis is, and so on. We will then present the progress to him for a final decision," she remarked.

The BGN deputy head added that the review process is also part of the government's efforts to enhance the implementation of the MBG program, with the support of relevant ministries and agencies.

Targeting 82.9 million beneficiaries across Indonesia, the MBG program was launched in early 2025 to provide meals to children under five, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and schoolchildren.

The Indonesian government on Monday, July 13, resumed the program after a temporary suspension throughout the school break for a thorough evaluation aimed at improving the program's nationwide rollout.

Translator: Aditya R, Maria C, Raka A

Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono

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