National Nutrition Agency to Integrate Data Systems to Improve Free Nutritious Meal Programme Governance

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Agustina Arumsari, stated that the agency will integrate data systems to improve the governance of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme to meet the target of enhancing national nutritional quality.

Arumsari, who has an auditing background, acknowledged that as it is her first day in office, concrete innovations have yet to be implemented; however, she is committed to reforming MBG governance through systemic improvements.

“Regarding concrete innovations, the details are not yet finalised, but from my initial overview, there are existing MBG portals and systems, such as the National Nutrition Fulfillment Information System (SIPGN) and others. Currently, I have observed that these are not yet integrated, and a validation process is essentially lacking. These are the areas that will become my focus,” she said during a press conference in Jakarta on Thursday.

She emphasised that improving governance must begin with an integrated system to ensure the programme’s continuity does not depend solely on individuals.

Arumsari also noted that the BGN will consider recommendations from various parties, including the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK).

“We will certainly adjust to existing conditions. Good and appropriate practices will be implemented. My task is to ensure that the governance built is systematised so that it does not depend on people, ranging from data management and information systems to other forms of governance,” Arumsari added.

Meanwhile, the Head of the BGN, Nanik S. Deyang, stated that the agency is currently focusing on improving the quality of the MBG programme, rather than merely pursuing quantity.