Indonesian MP Ade Rezki Pratama urges strengthening MBG quality in Agam

MBG, in simple terms, is a social assistance programme expected to be delivered to the right recipients.

Lubuk Basung – Ade Rezki Pratama, a member of Commission IX of the Indonesian House of Representatives, urged strengthening the quality of the Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG) to produce and distribute food within the Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) programme in Agam Regency.

‘Quality must be prioritised; SPPG should not simply seek profit. Kitchens could be closed if they do not meet standards or pose a risk,’ he said during a socialisation event to support MBG under the theme ‘balanced nutrition for an Indonesia moving forward together’ in Ampek Angkek District, Agam, on Wednesday (4 March).

He said MBG, in simple terms, is a social assistance programme that is hoped to be delivered to targeted recipients.

‘Appreciation for MBG in Ampek Angkek District; none have encountered problems, but we still request strengthened oversight,’ Ade said.

Ade also engaged directly with members of the public who asked for details of the cost per MBG package.

‘From Rp15,000, Rp10,000 is for the food portion, Rp3,000 covers all operating costs, and Rp2,000 is allocated for the return on investment,’ he said.

He emphasised that MBG is not merely the provision of meals, but a long-term investment to shape a generation that is healthy, intelligent, and strong to reduce rates of stunting and wasting.

Representative of the National Nutrition Agency, Rina Diana, added that the MBG socialisation is expected to involve community participation in monitoring the government programme.

‘We will process, report, and SPPG reported by residents can be suspended. We require the SPPG on social media to display the menu. It is all listed and can be monitored. Citizens can become the main watchdog of MBG’s success,’ she said.