Social Affairs Minister Targets 300,000 Elderly to Receive Free Nutritious Meals

Indonesia’s Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf, commonly known as Gus Ipul, has set a target of 300,000 elderly citizens to receive free nutritious meals through the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme.

Gus Ipul stated that the programme prioritises elderly persons aged 75 and above living alone, persons with disabilities, and those with limited access to daily nutritional fulfilment.

“We are continuing to develop the concept. This is undergoing transformation; previously meals were provided to the elderly and persons with disabilities, and we will now transform this to align with the MBG programme,” said Gus Ipul in Tangerang on Friday, 27 February.

He added that hundreds of thousands of elderly beneficiaries will be proposed to the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) this year. Distribution of MBG for this vulnerable group will be piloted in several areas in the near future.

“We hope this happens quickly. We are planning to pilot this in several locations,” he explained.

Gus Ipul noted that programme simulations were conducted in 2025 targeting 100,000 beneficiaries.

“Previously we ran simulations and proposed approximately 300,000 to 400,000 beneficiaries. This will grow even larger,” said Gus Ipul.

Upon implementation, the preparation of nutritious meals for the elderly will continue to be handled by the Nutrition Fulfilment Services Unit (SPPG). The distribution mechanism will involve social volunteers.

In addition to delivering meals, volunteers will be trained to accompany and care for the elderly beneficiaries.

“The officers delivering meals can come from Youth Organisations (Karang Taruna) or volunteers, and we hope they can eventually become carers or nurses for the elderly,” he stated.