Prabowo's Message to BGN Head During Eid al-Fitr: Enhance SPPG Standards
Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, stated that President Prabowo Subianto has urged that the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, especially aspects related to nutrition services, continue to enhance its quality. SPPG units deemed not to meet standards are to be temporarily closed until thorough improvements are conducted.
“President’s special message on Eid al-Fitr for BGN to improve the organisation and services of SPPG. Inadequate SPPG units should be temporarily closed and quality improvements promptly undertaken,” said Dadan in Jakarta on Monday (23/3).
In response to this message, BGN has immediately established a special unit tasked with monitoring certification implementation across all SPPG. In the initial phase, supervision focuses on three main certifications: the Hygiene and Sanitation Fitness Certificate (SLHS), Halal Certificate, and HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) certification.
These three certifications form the primary foundation in ensuring the safety, cleanliness, and quality of food served to the public. “Once these three certifications are fulfilled, we will advance to certifications related to the quality of SPPG human resources, including chefs, food handlers, and environmental analysis,” Dadan explained.
Furthermore, Dadan noted that the completeness of certifications will serve as the benchmark for determining the classification or grading of SPPG. This system is expected to create measurable quality standards while encouraging sustainable improvements in service quality.
In the meantime, pending the establishment of a national SPPG Accreditation Institution, BGN will form an internal SPPG Classification Team. This team will conduct initial assessments and prepare for a more structured and integrated accreditation system in the future.
This step is regarded as part of BGN’s strategic efforts to ensure the nutrition fulfilment programme operates optimally, safely, and in accordance with national and international standards.
“Before the SPPG Accreditation Institution is formed, BGN will specifically establish an internal SPPG Classification Team while systematically preparing for external accreditation institutions,” he concluded.
Head of BGN Dadan Hindayana stated that the MBG programme not only impacts the food sector but also increases public purchasing power and opens new employment opportunities.
Various food poisoning cases in the MBG programme have drawn public attention. Dadan said that in response, he attended a Commission IX DPR meeting to hear input on MBG governance.
Additionally, water for washing is requested to be provided with filters. Dadan highlighted this due to concerns over SPPG lacking proper sanitation.
President Prabowo Subianto emphasised that the free nutritious meals programme or MBG will not be halted despite criticism regarding its substantial budget needs amid fiscal pressures.
Prabowo stated that enforcement will be firm against kitchens not meeting standards, with direct field supervision.
He mentioned that the MBG programme will resume distribution to recipients from 31 March 2026.
This temporary suspension of MBG operations is part of strategic management to ensure distribution remains on target.
He affirmed that the government will continue to prioritise more productive and targeted expenditures.