Owner of Free Nutritious Meal Kitchen Claims to be Minister's Grandson and Pressures SPPG Head Until She Cries, Now Suspended

JAKARTA — Nanik S Deyang, Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), was approached by two heads of Nutrition Service Units (SPPG) from Ponorogo whilst on an official visit to Blitar, East Java, at the weekend.

The two SPPG heads sought her assistance, reporting that they had been pressured by the foundation owner who claims to be a minister’s grandson.

“These two SPPG heads from Ponorogo travelled all the way to Blitar to meet me seeking protection,” Nanik stated on Monday, 16 March 2026.

The two individuals are Somorto, Head of SPPG Ponorogo Kauman, and Syafi’i Misbachul Mufid, Head of SPPG Ponorogo Jambon Krebet.

For months, they have been subjected to pressure and intimidation by the foundation, which is allegedly operated by someone claiming to be a minister’s grandson. The pressure has extended to nutrition supervisors and financial supervisors as well.

Additionally, the foundation is suspected of manipulating food purchases. According to Nanik, whilst the BGN allocated a budget of Rp 10,000 per meal for food procurement, the foundation has only spent Rp 6,500 per meal.

Consequently, the two SPPG heads have frequently had to cover the shortfall from their own pockets to ensure that the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme meals appeared presentable.

“Whether I like it or not, I feel sorry for the student beneficiaries,” said Mufid.

The foundation has allegedly threatened and intimidated the SPPG heads by claiming it would bring in police or lawyers if they did not comply with the owner’s demands.

Furthermore, according to Nanik, all volunteers and schools receiving programme benefits have been asked to sign documents calling for the removal of the two SPPG heads.

Upon hearing the complaints and witnessing the distress of the two SPPG heads, who broke down in tears, Nanik immediately tasked Brigadier General Albertus Dony Dewantoro, Director of Regional Monitoring and Supervision II, and his team to conduct a direct inspection of both meal preparation facilities.

Nanik expressed her anger at the situation.