BGN Chief Vows Transparency, Warns Against Personal Connections in Free Nutritious Meal Programme

Jakarta – Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sudaryono, has stressed that the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) Programme must be conducted openly, transparently, and in accordance with established mechanisms. Despite having family, friends, colleagues, and alumni networks, he asserted that personal closeness to him must not be exploited to secure projects, employment, or any form of facilitation within the MBG Programme. “If there are people offering services, perhaps for a fee, claiming to be my relatives, friends, colleagues, or alumni, and suggesting something improper, I assure you that is not true,” Sudaryono said in a statement on Wednesday, 22 July 2026. Sudaryono also called on the public to report any parties misusing his name to law enforcement authorities. He stated that such firmness is necessary to protect the MBG Programme from brokerage practices, abuse of influence, and various forms of irregularities. He also apologised to his family, friends, colleagues, and acquaintances, as he will not grant special treatment when discussions pertain to work within the BGN. “I will not give special attention or any kind of priority if the matter being discussed is related to work,” he said. Sudaryono emphasised that all matters concerning the BGN and the MBG Programme must be discussed officially, openly, and under public and professional scrutiny, with every process carried out according to applicable regulations. “We are no longer operating on a ‘trust in person’ basis, holding discussions in dim, dark private rooms or restaurants. Everything must be discussed in bright, transparent spaces, visible to the public. I think it is important for me to convey this,” Sudaryono added. He also urged all BGN officials and MBG Programme implementers to build a clean and accountable work system, while seeking support from the public and the media to oversee the programme’s implementation.