National Nutrition Agency denies rumours of MBG programme funding halt

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has assured the public that the Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG) remains operational and has stressed that information regarding the suspension of the programme’s funding disbursement is a hoax. Head of BGN Nanik S. Deyang stated on Thursday in Jakarta that there has been no official instruction or policy from the BGN to halt the operations of MBG kitchens or the Nutritional Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) across Indonesia. "We affirm that 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 operational suspension," Nanik said. The clarification was issued following the circulation of information suggesting that several SPPGs might cease operations if available funds were insufficient. The BGN stressed that this information is not an official institutional policy and cannot serve as a reference for programme implementation partners. She acknowledged that there are administrative dynamics in the budget disbursement process. However, this condition does not alter the government's commitment to running 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 disseminated through the BGN's communication channels and not to readily believe information from unverifiable sources. "Should there be obstacles in the field, we request all partners to coordinate through official channels. Do not use information that does not originate from an official source as a basis for operational decision-making," she said. "Our current focus 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," she stated.