Distribution of Whole Coconuts Results in Temporary Closure of Nine Nutrition Service Units in Gresik
Nine Nutrition Service Units (SPPG) in Gresik Regency, East Java, distributed whole coconuts as part of the free nutritious meals programme (MBG) and have subsequently been temporarily closed.
The nine SPPG comprise SPPG Gresik Sidayu Ngawen; SPPG Gresik Sidayu Wadeng; SPPG Gresik Dukun Wonokerto; SPPG Gresik Dukun Lowayu; SPPG Gresik Dukun Sembungan Kidul; SPPG Gresik Dukun Tebuwung; SPPG Gresik Ujungpangkah Glatik; SPPG Gresik Balongpanggang Pucung; and SPPG Gresik Sidayu Sidomulyo.
Nanik Sudaryati Deyang, Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) for Public Communication and Investigation, expressed regret at the decision by the SPPG managers, which she deemed as disregarding similar controversies that had previously garnered public attention.
“The distribution of whole coconuts previously drew public attention in several regions. This should have served as a lesson for all SPPG managers to be more careful in determining the menu provided to beneficiaries,” Nanik stated in her statement on Sunday (15 March 2026).
Rejection of SPPG Explanations
Nanik firmly rejected the justification offered by the nine SPPG that the menu items were provided at the request of beneficiaries, stating that this could not serve as a valid excuse. Each SPPG, according to Nanik, remains obligated to comply with menu standards and operational guidelines established in the MBG programme.
“All SPPG must continue to follow the menu guidelines and service standards that have been established. As a result, the nine SPPG in Gresik currently distributing whole coconuts will be temporarily suspended from operations for an evaluation process,” she said.
Nanik added that her office would also impose disciplinary action against the SPPG heads involved. “I have also instructed that the heads of SPPG be dealt with firmly by issuing a first written warning or transferring them, because as leaders they failed to keep up with current affairs and allowed similar incidents to recur,” Nanik stated firmly.
Operational Suspension
Meanwhile, Albertus Dony Dewantoro, Director of Monitoring and Regional Supervision II of the BGN, stated that as of 14 March 2026, the nine SPPG have ceased temporary operations.
The BGN also reminded all SPPG managers across various regions to be more meticulous in implementing the programme, including adhering to menu standards, food safety, and sensitivity to issues emerging within the community.