Prabowo Allows BGN to Study MBG Distribution Through School Canteens as Alternative to SPPG

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is studying the involvement of school canteens as an alternative for implementing the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) Programme, following President Prabowo Subianto’s directive to evaluate the distribution scheme for improvement. BGN Deputy Head Agustina Arumsari stated that the President has opened the door to implementation schemes other than through the Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG). ‘The President also said earlier, please study if there are other alternatives, it is allowed,’ Agustina said at the Presidential Palace Complex in Jakarta on Wednesday. She explained that the current provisions still refer to Presidential Regulation Number 115, which stipulates the implementation of MBG through SPPG. According to Agustina, the President requested that every policy alternative have a strong study basis before the government makes a decision. ‘Again, he asks that every policy option be studied carefully, what the basis is and so on. Later, come back to him and present the progress for us to decide,’ she said. When asked whether involving school canteens was among the alternatives being studied, Agustina confirmed it. ‘Yes, that is part of what is being studied,’ she said. Agustina added that the study process is also part of the government’s efforts to improve the implementation of the MBG Programme with the support of relevant ministries and institutions.