National Nutrition Agency denies rumours of MBG programme funding halt
The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has confirmed that the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme services will continue to operate, asserting that information regarding the suspension of the programme’s fund distribution is false.
Speaking in Jakarta on Thursday, the Head of BGN, Nanik S. Deyang, stated that there are no official instructions or policies from the BGN to cease the operations of MBG kitchens or Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) throughout Indonesia.
“We emphasise that the information claiming the BGN has ordered the cessation of MBG kitchen operations is untrue. There is no official policy or instruction from the BGN regarding the suspension of operations,” said Nanik.
This clarification follows the circulation of information suggesting that several SPPGs might cease operations if available funds are insufficient. The BGN emphasised that such information does not constitute an official institutional policy and should not be used as a reference by programme implementation partners.
She acknowledged that there are administrative dynamics within the budget disbursement process. However, she noted that these conditions do not alter the government’s commitment to implementing and expanding the scope of the MBG Programme.
The BGN also urged all partners, foundations, SPPG managers, suppliers, and the public to refer to official information provided through BGN communication channels and not to easily believe information from unverified sources.
“If there are obstacles in the field, we request all partners to coordinate through official channels. Do not use information that does not originate from official sources as a basis for operational decision-making,” she added.
“Our current focus is to maintain the continuity of MBG services and ensure all beneficiaries continue to receive their entitlements. Therefore, we invite all parties to work together to combat disinformation that could cause public unrest,” she concluded.