Finance Minister Purbaya Urged to Stop MBG Programme by Women in Yogyakarta

An unexpected moment occurred when Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa visited Yogyakarta. He was suddenly greeted by women passing by and asked to stop the MBG programme.

According to detikJogja’s monitoring on Tuesday (17 March 2026), one of the locations visited by Purbaya was Teras Malioboro. He arrived at 13:35 Western Indonesian Time. He was welcomed by DIY Governor Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X alongside senior regional officials. Afterwards, the two held a discussion in the Cendrawasih room at Teras Malioboro.

Purbaya and the Sultan then strolled about and chatted with traders, purchasing several t-shirts. Purbaya also tried and bought Lurik fabric from another stall.

The entourage then moved to Pasar Beringharjo market, located across from Teras Malioboro. Purbaya’s presence attracted the attention of residents and tourists alike.

Intercepted by Women for Greeting

The unexpected moment then occurred. It happened as Purbaya was about to cross from Teras Malioboro to Pasar Beringharjo. Whilst attempting to cross the road, he was called over and approached by two headscarved women.

Initially, the two only requested to shake hands and greet Purbaya. However, after shaking hands, one of the women aired her grievances about the MBG programme to Purbaya.

“Sir, please stop MBG, please Sir, stop it yes Sir. MBG is unfair sir,” said one of the women to Purbaya on Tuesday (17 March) afternoon.

“There are many inequities sir, if possible just convert it to cash Sir,” she added.

The other woman then echoed the complaint, mentioning that her child was unwilling to eat MBG.

“It’s true, many are complaining, my child doesn’t want to eat MBG Sir, please,” added one of the women.

Purbaya’s Response

As usual, Purbaya responded cordially. He chuckled slightly and then promised to convey the complaint to President Prabowo Subianto.

“Let’s make it effective then, yes. I’ll relay it to Mr. President,” replied Purbaya.