BGN Backs Legal Action Against Alleged MBG Kitchen Fraud in East Lombok

Mataram, KOMPAS.com – The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the Free Nutrition Meal Programme (MBG). BGN fully supports legal proceedings regarding alleged fraud and embezzlement related to the construction of Nutrition Service Units (SPPG) in East Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara. The statement was made by BGN Deputy Chief Sony Sonjaya during a press conference with the West Nusa Tenggara Provincial Police (Polda NTB) and East Lombok Police District (Polres Lombok Timur) at the Polda NTB’s Rupatama Room on Friday, 29 May 2026. In practice, suspects allegedly offered SPPG site locations, kitchen facility construction, and operational readiness in exchange for payments from victims. ‘The modus operandi involves promising SPPG site allocations, building construction, and operational readiness. However, the legitimate SPPG application and verification process never involves any fees from the National Nutrition Agency,’ Sony stated. ‘BGN has never appointed intermediaries, brokers, or any party to guarantee SPPG site allocation in exchange for payment. All processes are conducted transparently in accordance with applicable regulations,’ he added. According to Sony, several victims approached BGN after promised projects failed to materialise and the paid funds were not returned. BGN also reminded the public that all official information regarding SPPG construction, including technical requirements, building standards, kitchen capacity, and facility layout, is publicly accessible through government channels. ‘We urge the public to always verify information via BGN’s official sources and not to trust parties offering service assistance or promising SPPG construction approval in exchange for payments,’ Sony said. Based on reports, victims have suffered losses of Rp950 million, allegedly paid to the suspect for MBG kitchen construction in the Masbagik Selatan area of East Lombok. Investigators issued a case investigation letter on 21 May 2026 and identified a suspect with the initials S on 29 May 2026. BGN expressed its appreciation to Polda NTB and Polres Lombok Timur for their swift action in following up on public reports. The synergy between the government and law enforcement authorities is crucial in maintaining public trust in the expanding Free Nutrition Meal Programme, which aims to reach more beneficiaries across Indonesia.