BNPP Discusses Strategies to Accelerate Free Nutritious Meal Programme Implementation in Frontier Regions
The National Border Management Agency of the Republic of Indonesia (BNPP RI), together with the Agency for Domestic Policy Strategy (BSKDN), has discussed strategies to accelerate the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) Programme in underdeveloped, outermost, and frontier (3T) regions. Key focus areas include Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG), infrastructure conditions, and geographical challenges.
During a forum held last Wednesday (23/9), the Assistant Deputy for Government Infrastructure at BNPP RI, Bakri Siddiq, stated that BNPP RI plays a vital role in identifying the implementation conditions of the MBOG programme in border areas, particularly across the 15 operational Integrated Border Posts (PLBN).
“We from BNPP have been given the opportunity to present strategies for the acceleration and implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal programme, specifically in 3T areas,” said Bakri.
According to Bakri, of the 15 operational PLBNs, only about 50 per cent have received interventions from the National Nutrition Agency (BGN). This situation indicates a need for further mapping of PLBNs that possess the necessary facilities and infrastructure to support the MBG programme.
Bakri noted that the availability of basic infrastructure, such as clean water, is a decisive factor in the operational readiness of SPPGs and the scope of service to beneficiaries.
Consequently, coordination between ministries and agencies is required so that operational obstacles can be promptly identified and addressed according to regional characteristics.
In addition to infrastructure, Bakri highlighted that the operations of several SPPGs in 3T areas are not yet optimal. This situation requires attention because the geographical and social characteristics of border regions differ from other areas.
“We must ensure there is no disparity between SPPGs in Java and Sumatra compared to Papua. Due to geographical conditions, challenges, local culture, and investor interest, the SPPGs there are not yet ideal,” he said.
Bakri added that the limited number of SPPGs is also linked to regional conditions, necessitating that services be provided through the nearest available unit. However, beneficiary regulations have been designed to ensure service coverage remains within an ideal capacity of approximately 2,500 to a maximum of 3,000 beneficiaries.
Meanwhile, the Head of BSKDN, Yusharto Huntoyungo, stated that the MBG programme is a strategic government intervention to ensure access to nutritious food for the population. The programme is a national priority that must reach target groups more broadly and equitably.
Based on preliminary data compiled by the Ministry of Villages and Disadvantaged Regions, the adequacy of SPPGs in underdeveloped areas has only reached 10.78 per cent of the required ideal number.
“The implementation of the MBG programme in 3T areas will require a very different approach compared to non-3T areas,” said Yutsharto.
He explained that 3T regions face numerous challenges, ranging from supply chain vulnerabilities and limited basic infrastructure, such as clean water and electricity, to a shortage of trained nutrition personnel.
From a regulatory perspective, the government has prepared several foundations to support the MBG programme in 3T areas. These include the Head of BGN Decision Number 58.1 of 2025 regarding Technical Guidelines for the Management of the Free Nutritious Meal Programme in Frontier, Outermost, and Disadvantaged Areas.
Additionally, there is the Ministry of Home Affairs Circular Letter Number 400.5.7/4072/SJ regarding the Formation of Task Forces for the Accelerated Implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal Programme in Regions.
BNPP RI also holds the Head of BNPP Decision Number 35.04-705 of 2025 concerning the Management of National Border Areas and Border Regions for 2025-2029.
Input from stakeholders and experts will subsequently serve as material for formulating alternative strategies and policy recommendations that can be applied according to regional characteristics.
“With an approach tailored to local conditions, the implementation of the MBG in border areas is expected to reach the community and beneficiaries more equitably,” he concluded.