Discussing the Effects of MBG, Prabowo Warns Corrupt Officials: Just Try It, I Have Already Warned You!
President Prabowo Subianto attended the ‘Building Indonesia’s Future Generations Through Nutrition’ event held at the Sentul International Convention Centre (SICC), Bogor Regency, West Java, on Wednesday, 3 June 2026. The event was attended by 2,173 participants, including heads of Nutrition Fulfilment Service Offices (KPPG), regional coordinators, and implementing partners of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) Programme.
In his opening speech, Prabowo emphasised that the dedication of every implementer of the MBG Programme is a vital foundation for this strategic initiative aimed at improving the quality of Indonesia’s human resources. He highlighted the programme’s significance for the nation’s development, noting that many advanced nations use school meal programmes to reduce poverty and enhance the physical and intellectual capabilities of the next generation.
‘If this programme succeeds, it will trigger massive progress for our economy,’ Prabowo stated. ‘If the kitchens function effectively and the programme is implemented correctly, the rural economy will thrive. Farmers’ incomes will increase, they will no longer be at the mercy of middlemen, and they will have guaranteed markets for their produce, allowing them to lead better lives.’
He projected that at its peak, feeding 83 million people through approximately 30,000 kitchens could generate 1.5 million formal jobs and an additional 1.5 million jobs within the rural economy, creating a total of 3 million jobs and significantly increasing the circulation of money in villages.
However, Prabowo issued a severe warning against corruption, stating that the MBG Programme must not become a tool for personal enrichment. He noted that food programmes are particularly vulnerable to corruption. ‘Food is a sacred matter. Food for the needy must not be used to enrich certain individuals. Food is the easiest thing to corrupt,’ he warned.
During the event, Prabowo challenged the partners present to identify themselves as honest actors. He also issued a stern warning to any ‘rogue’ partners, urging them to return to the right path. He added that those who report misconduct would be protected, but those who believe they can outsmart the state should be wary. ‘If you think you can be smarter than the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI), just try it,’ he said with a serious expression.
To reinforce law enforcement, Prabowo offered his full support to the Head of the BPKP (Financial and Development Supervisory Agency), the Chairperson of the KPK (Corruption Eradication Commission), and the Attorney General. He stated he would provide any necessary resources, including additional personnel or significant funding, to strengthen these agencies. ‘I do not want the NKRI to be insulted, I do not want the Government of the Republic of Indonesia to be disrespected. I do not want the people’s money to be stolen!’ he declared.
Prabowo concluded by reiterating that there would be no exceptions, noting the personal weight of appointing officials to their positions. ‘When I asked the rogue partners to raise their hands, no one did. So be it. I have already given you my warning,’ he concluded.