House Commission IX to Seek Explanation from National Nutrition Agency on Problematic SPPG Incentives

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy Chairman of House Commission IX Charles Honoris will seek an explanation from the Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) regarding the Rp6 million daily incentive still being disbursed to problematic Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG) units. He views this policy as a squandering of state funds by financing units that are not operating after committing violations. Moreover, he notes that the government is currently prioritising efficiency and savings across all sectors. “We will request an explanation from the BGN Head to hold accountable the use of this budget that has captured significant public attention in the upcoming working meeting,” Charles stated in Jakarta on Wednesday. Based on the information he has received, he estimates that the number of closed kitchens totals 3,778 units. If those thousands of SPPG units are closed for two weeks, he believes the state should be able to save Rp317 billion. According to him, such funds should instead be allocated to education programmes or to improve the welfare of frontline health workers. He considers financing SPPG units under sanction to be a futile effort. He also reminds that the purpose of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is to improve child nutrition, not to distribute project shares. “Do not let the essence of improving public nutrition be betrayed by poor management,” Charles said. Previously, BGN Head Dadan Hindayana stated that temporarily closed SPPG units would still receive budget support in the form of Rp6 million daily incentives, as those services must still handle various needs. Dadan also emphasised that although some SPPG units are temporarily suspended due to various factors, over 25,000 SPPG units are simultaneously serving millions of beneficiaries of President Prabowo Subianto’s priority programme.