Pekanbaru Mayor Supports Continuation of Free Nutritious Meal Programme
The Mayor of Pekanbaru, Agung Nugroho, has expressed his support for the continuation and strengthening of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, which serves as a national strategic initiative. This support was conveyed by Agung during the 18th APEKSI National Working Meeting held in Medan on Thursday, 2 July 2026.
In the meeting, which was attended by regional heads from across Indonesia, Agung recommended that the national strategic programme be maintained due to its positive impact on human resource development and economic circulation within Pekanbaru.
“Through this 18th APEKSI National Working Meeting, we from Pekanbaru also wish to add a recommendation. Pekanbaru has often been noted by the Minister of Home Affairs for an increase in Local Original Revenue (PAD) of more than Rp400 billion. We must be responsible for that. We recommend that this national MBG programme must be continued,” said Agung.
Agung stated that the MBG programme has led to improvements in human resources and increased economic activity in Pekanbaru. The programme has facilitated the recruitment of new workers to be employed in Integrated Service Units (SPPG) or MBG kitchens, thereby increasing local employment absorption.
“One of the reasons for the increase in PAD is the reduction in unemployment. Women who were previously unemployed are now working and can afford to spend independently because they have an income. This drives economic circulation,” Agung added.
Consequently, the Pekanbaru City Government hopes that this national programme from the President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, will proceed. Beyond meeting children’s nutritional needs, the programme is expected to have a positive impact on economic growth in Pekanbaru.
The 18th APEKSI meeting, held in Medan, serves as a strategic platform for city governments across Indonesia to strengthen synergy, align development goals, and discuss various strategic urban issues, such as strengthening food security, climate change adaptation, digital government transformation, and improving the quality of public services.