APPMBGI Meets Coordinating Minister for Food to Deliver Recommendations for Strengthening Free Nutritious Meals Programme

The Central Board of the Indonesian Association of Entrepreneurs and Managers of Free Nutritious Kitchens (APPMBGI) conveyed five recommendations to strengthen the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme to the government. These recommendations were presented during an audience with the Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs, Zulkifli Hasan, in Jakarta on Tuesday (28/4/2026).

APPMBGI General Chairman Abdul Rivai Ras stated that the input stems from the experiences of those on the ground. “These recommendations arise from the field, from the direct experiences of managers, and we believe they can serve as constructive input for refining national policies,” said Rivai.

The five recommendations encompass strengthening governance and accountability, securing food supply chains based on local production, enhancing food safety standards, certifying nutrition supervisory personnel, and reinforcing the supporting ecosystem.

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan remarked that the success of MBG requires involvement from various parties. “Its success (MBG) demands active participation from all components of society, including business actors and kitchen managers working directly on the ground. APPMBGI is a strategic partner whose role and professional input we greatly value,” said Zulkifli.

Deputy for Coordination of Food Affordability and Security, Nani Hendiarti, stated that APPMBGI’s role is crucial in supporting the government’s priority programme in the food sector.

APPMBGI views the organisation as a bridge between central policies and regional implementation. Rivai said that communication with the government needs to be maintained to ensure programme execution remains aligned with national priorities. “We hope for ongoing guidance and communication with the Coordinating Ministry for Food so that our steps remain adaptive, constructive, and in line with national development priorities,” said Rivai.

As a follow-up, both parties agreed to establish a communication forum to strengthen coordination. APPMBGI also plans to expand its network to all provinces to support equitable implementation of MBG.

This audience is seen as strengthening dialogue between the government and business actors in bolstering food security. Rivai stated that improvements in governance and supply chains will drive the MBG programme to be more optimal.

“With strengthened governance, a guaranteed supply chain, and certified human resources, the MBG Programme will become increasingly optimal,” said Rivai.