Deputy Agriculture Minister: MBG boosts agricultural commodity absorption

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy Agriculture Minister Sudaryono stated that the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme has boosted national agricultural commodity absorption and encouraged investment in the food sector.

Sudaryono, speaking at the National Conference on Regional Economic Development in Jakarta on Monday, said the MBG programme has significantly improved the absorption of agricultural commodities.

‘I must say on behalf of farmers that the MBG has had a significant impact on the absorption of our agricultural commodities,’ Sudaryono said.

He cited examples where commodities such as carrots, tomatoes, and milk previously faced oversupply and were often wasted before the MBG programme was implemented.

‘Now there is significant investment. Investments in Brebes have reached 20,000 head of livestock, and there are also investments in Central Kalimantan,’ he said.

Sudaryono said the MBG programme has created a new market capable of absorbing a wide range of food commodities.

However, Sudaryono acknowledged shortcomings in the programme’s implementation, stressing the need for stronger oversight.

He stressed that MBG kitchens must prioritise local agricultural products to support regional economies.

‘We hope any MBG kitchens not purchasing local agricultural products will be reported so they can be reprimanded to ensure they absorb produce from the surrounding areas,’ he said.