National Nutrition Agency Denies Free Nutritious Meals Funding Halted, Operations Continue

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has emphasised that circulating information regarding the suspension of funding for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is untrue or a hoax. BGN has confirmed that all MBG services continue to operate according to established mechanisms. This clarification was issued following the emergence of information suggesting that several Nutritional Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) could halt operations if available funds were insufficient. BGN stressed that such information is not official institutional policy and cannot be used as a reference by programme implementing partners. BGN Head Nanik S Deyang stated that to date, there has been no instruction from BGN to halt MBG kitchen operations nationwide. According to Nanik, the national strategic programme continues to run and serve its beneficiaries. ‘We emphasise that information claiming BGN has ordered the cessation of MBG kitchen operations is untrue. There is no official policy or instruction from BGN regarding operational suspension,’ Nanik said in Jakarta on Thursday. Nanik acknowledged the administrative dynamics involved in the budget disbursement process. However, this does not alter the government’s commitment to implementing the MBG programme, which is currently being expanded to reach more beneficiaries in various regions. BGN also urged all partners, foundations, SPPG managers, suppliers and the public to always refer to official information communicated through BGN channels and to avoid readily believing information from unverifiable sources. ‘If there are obstacles on the ground, we ask all partners to coordinate through official channels. Do not use information from unofficial sources as a basis for making operational decisions,’ Nanik stressed. According to Nanik, coordination between BGN, implementing partners and other stakeholders continues to ensure the distribution of MBG to beneficiaries proceeds smoothly, safely and according to established standards. ‘Our focus now is maintaining the continuity of MBG services and ensuring all beneficiaries continue to receive their entitlements. Therefore, we invite all parties to jointly combat disinformation that could cause public unrest,’ Nanik stated.