MBG Programme Called Haram, Gus Yasin: Needs Discussion by MUI, NU, and Muhammadiyah

SEMARANG – Central Java Deputy Governor Taj Yasin Maimoen has expressed appreciation for the statement by KH Ahmad Mudhoffar, head of the Al Husna Internasional Islamic boarding school in Mayong, Jepara Regency, who declared the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme haram because of alleged corruption in its implementation. According to him, this view could serve as material for discussion, including by the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) and other Islamic organisations.

Gus Yasin declined to comment on the application of Islamic law to the MBG programme, which has given rise to allegations of corrupt practices. “When it comes to the religious ruling, now that it has become an issue like this, that is not within our domain in government. This is the domain of, later on, whether it is the MUI, Muhammadiyah or NU, to discuss how it should be addressed,” he said when interviewed in Semarang on Monday (13 July 2026).

“This is indeed what I appreciate about Kiai Mudhoffar raising this matter (MBG being haram), so that it can be discussed later,” Gus Yasin added.

Nevertheless, Gus Yasin agreed with the point raised by Kiai Mudhoffar regarding corrupt practices in the implementation of the MBG programme. “The Quran indeed states that assisting in corruption, in matters forbidden by syariah, is itself forbidden,” he said.

However, he said the view that MBG is haram requires further study. Gus Yasin emphasised that MBG is a programme designed to improve public nutrition, particularly for school pupils and pregnant women. “And in this context, from a religious standpoint, it is not forbidden,” he said.