Prabowo Asserts Integrity of Free Nutritious Meal Programme: Do Not Steal the People's Money
President Prabowo Subianto has issued a severe warning regarding the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) Programme. In his directive, the President emphasised that integrity and accountability are absolute requirements to ensure that this national priority programme is precisely targeted and free from corrupt practices.
“I do not want the people’s money to be stolen. I do not want the people’s money to be stolen. And there will be no exceptions,” Prabowo stated firmly while attending the ‘Building Indonesia’s Future Generations Through Nutrition’ event at the Sentul International Convention Center (SICC), Bogor Regency, on Wednesday.
The President stated that the government is fully committed to maintaining the success of the MBG Programme. He ensured there would be zero tolerance for any abuse of authority or misappropriation of budgets in any form. Decisive action has already been taken, including the replacement of several parties deemed untrustworthy.
According to Prabowo, the decision to reshuffle personnel was based on field reports regarding deficiencies, irregularities, and suspected deviations. He admitted that while the decision was not easy, it was necessary for the broader public interest. In making strategic decisions, Prabowo noted that he adheres to the message of his late father, Prof. Sumitrag Djojohadikusumo: “If you are ever confused or hesitant, remember, always side with your people.”
The President assessed that leadership quality is the primary key to organisational success, noting that dishonest or incompetent leaders only damage existing systems. Consequently, the role of the Indonesian Development Driver Scholars (SPPI) is crucial as the primary implementers on the ground. Graduates of the SPPI have been specifically prepared to manage MBG kitchens across various regions, instilled with values of service and patriotism.
“We have educated, recruited, and trained our brothers and sisters to lead these kitchens. This is noble work and it must succeed. If you do not work well and remain disloyal, please step aside. The interests of the people are above all other interests,” he said.
In his closing remarks, the President urged all kitchen managers and SPPI personnel to strengthen internal supervision. This aims to maintain public trust and ensure that every Rupiah allocated is effectively transformed into high-quality nutritional intake for Indonesia’s future generations.
In related developments, the Attorney General’s Office (Kejagung) has conducted searches at several locations and named the former Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, along with two deputies, Lodewyk Pusung and Sonny Sanjaya, as suspects in a corruption case related to the 2025-2026 MBG Programme. Meanwhile, members of Parliament (DPR RI) have noted that the leadership changes within the BGN, including the appointment of Nanik S. Deyang as the new Head of the BGN, are appropriate steps to strengthen the programme’s effectiveness.