BGN Chief: Free Nutritious Meal Programme is President Prabowo's Political Tender

Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) Sudaryono has stated that he will focus on improving the governance of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. He assured that his agency will also accept any criticism or input from the public regarding the programme’s implementation. Sudaryono assessed that governance improvements cannot be made instantly. Therefore, extensive input from the wider community on the implementation of the MBG programme is needed. “Of course, we, I in particular together with the entire team, are ready to listen to input, ready to listen to every piece of information, input from anywhere, from anyone, including from media colleagues,” he said at the BGN Building on Wednesday (22/7/2026). He also urged the public not to hesitate to report if any nutritional fulfilment service units (SPPG) do not meet standards. Every incoming report will serve as material for the BGN to conduct field investigations. However, Sudaryono will not respond if there are parties who simply want the MBG programme stopped under the guise of criticism. He noted that he does not have the authority to carry out such a request. “If, for example, there are those who, in the name of criticism, demand that the MBG be stopped or the BGN be disbanded, I think that is not criticism. It is not within our domain to stop or disband the BGN,” he said. The Gerindra Party politician emphasised that the MBG programme is a political tender from President Prabowo Subianto. This means the programme cannot be simply halted because it is a political promise that must be fulfilled. “The Free Nutritious Meal is President Prabowo’s political tender, planned well in advance, delivered during the campaign, and then he was elected President,” he said. Therefore, Sudaryono stated that his agency will focus more on improving the governance of the MBG programme rather than responding to those who want it stopped. Moreover, the programme aims to provide good and safe nutrition for children, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and the elderly. The MBG programme is also said to have an economic impact, particularly in the regions. “This is a programme from the people and will be given to the people,” he said.