Gibran: Government Committed to Improving MBG and KDMP Governance

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has assured that the government is committed to improving the governance of the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG) and the Village/Subdistrict Red and White Cooperatives (KDMP) to ensure every rupiah spent benefits the public. In an official statement received in Jakarta on Wednesday, Gibran stated that the governance improvements are intended to make the execution of both programmes more targeted, effective, and efficient, while also safeguarding them from corrupt practices. He emphasised that such measures are crucial for maintaining public trust and enhancing the government’s fiscal capacity, thereby boosting market confidence in the national economy. The government previously announced plans to reform MBG management following the inauguration of the new leadership at the National Nutrition Agency (BGN). In addition to refining programme targeting, BGN is also addressing the management of Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG). Deputy Head of BGN Agustina Arumsari stated after a meeting with the House of Representatives’ Commission IX in Jakarta on Monday that BGN employees would be prohibited from owning SPPG units to prevent conflicts of interest. Meanwhile, Minister of Cooperatives Ferry Juliantono estimated that around 40,000 KDMP units could begin operations by the end of 2026, supported by the acceleration of supporting infrastructure development across various regions. He stressed that the development of the cooperatives would continue, but noted that operationalisation requires a qualitative approach, including feasibility studies to ensure profitability, as recommended by the House of Representatives.