BGN Chief Threatens to Sack SPPG Heads Over Illegal Levies

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sudaryono, has reminded the heads of the Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) not to engage in illegal levy practices. He confirmed he will take action against any kitchen head of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme proven to have committed such practices. Sudaryono stated that SPPG heads must continuously improve their performance in executing one of President Prabowo Subianto’s priority programmes. This is especially important as the SPPG heads have been appointed as state civil apparatus with the status of Government Employees with Work Agreements. ‘Whoever, any SPPG head, I am saying here, any kitchen head, whoever it is, if they receive or request a fee or additional payment from partners or foundations, that is a criminal act of gratification or corruption,’ Sudaryono said during a press conference on Monday. He urged any party who feels they have been subjected to illegal levies by an SPPG head to immediately report it to the BGN. According to him, every report will be followed up. Sudaryono also reminded SPPG heads to conduct food procurement transparently. He does not want any purchases of foodstuffs at unreasonable prices or for personal gain. ‘Because an SPPG head who buys ingredients at an unreasonable price, marks them up, or asks for a kickback, that is also a violation of gratification and a criminal act of corruption. Anyone who commits such a violation, if proven, will certainly be sacked and their kitchen will be suspended or closed,’ he said. Sudaryono noted that many SPPG heads are currently performing well in running the MBG programme. He therefore does not want a number of violations to tarnish the programme’s image. ‘We acknowledge there are shortcomings, we acknowledge there are things that must be improved, we even acknowledge there are violations as you are aware. However, we are ready to fix them and carry out this work as best we can,’ Sudaryono said.