Issue of Himbara Funds for MBG Circulates, OJK Assures No Coercion

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has responded to a narrative circulating on social media urging the public to be wary of funds in banks that are members of the State-Owned Banks Association (Himbara). The narrative was posted by the Instagram account @kementrian**********. The post claimed that funds in Himbara banks could potentially be used to finance the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The account also mentioned the state coffers’ condition, stating that the Budget Surplus (SAL) was left with Rp 120 trillion from the previous Rp 420 trillion. “The remaining state cash is only Rp 120 trillion, those saving money in Himbara banks need to be vigilant, don’t let our savings be used for MBG!” wrote the account. “It is impossible for the government or OJK to force banks to channel credit to the government’s priority programmes,” said Dian to Kompas.com on Friday (24/4/2026). Funds managed by banks mostly come from public deposits. Credit disbursement decisions are in the business domain of each bank. Banks still follow regulator provisions. OJK is preparing new regulations related to the Bank Business Plan (RBB) to encourage banking to support priority programmes. “But there must be no coercion,” she stressed. Dian assessed that the policy also opens opportunities for banks to increase credit disbursement. Disbursement must still consider business aspects and risk management. “The public should not be provoked by irresponsible issues,” she advised.