Indonesia reopens 450 MBG kitchens in Sumatra, 117 under review

A total of 117 kitchens — locally known as nutrition fulfillment service units (SPPGs) — in Sumatra remain halted and are undergoing further evaluation, reflecting BGN’s zero tolerance policy for deviations in the program.

BGN Director of Monitoring and Supervision for Region I (Sumatra), Harjito, said in a statement on Thursday that the suspension of operations serves as an instrument to enforce standards in a systematic and measurable manner.

“The suspension is based on strict evaluation indicators to ensure all SPPGs meet standards of quality, food safety, and accountable governance,” he said.

BGN said technical details of findings in the field have not been fully disclosed, as verification is still ongoing to ensure data accuracy and objectivity.

As part of improvements, BGN applies not only administrative sanctions but also structured and continuous guidance.

“Each suspended SPPG must undergo intensive mentoring and technical assistance to meet standards and resume optimal operations,” Harjito added.

BGN is also strengthening an integrated regional monitoring system to improve supervision and enable early detection of potential violations.

The approach is expected to reduce repeated violations, accelerate operational recovery, and strengthen oversight to maintain the credibility of the MBG program.

“We ensure all services comply with established standards. There is no tolerance for practices that may reduce service quality or public trust,” he said.

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Translator: Lintang Budiyanti, Tegar Nurfitra