Sudaryono Opens Possibility of MBG Poisoning Case Being Investigated by Law Enforcement
The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sudaryono, has affirmed that strict sanctions will be imposed on parties proven negligent in the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, following a food safety incident in Karo Regency, North Sumatra.
This was conveyed during his visit to one of the student victims of MBG poisoning who was referred to Haji Medan Hospital on Sunday, 16 August 2026.
He stated that sanctions for parties proven negligent are not limited to removal from their positions. Specifically for Heads of the Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG) who hold civil servant (ASN) status, he confirmed that dishonourable dismissal would be pursued through the National Civil Service Agency (BKN).
“The first sanction is that the kitchen will be heavily suspended. Then, for the Head of the SPPG, the sanction I can impose is not merely removal, but I will submit a request for dishonourable dismissal through the National Civil Service Agency, given their ASN status. Because this already concerns lives,” Sudaryono asserted.
He also opened the possibility of handing over the investigation process to law enforcement authorities to probe the alleged negligence in the incident.
According to him, food safety in the MBG programme is not merely an operational kitchen matter, but concerns human safety and lives. Therefore, all kitchen heads, staff, and responsible parties are required to ensure that all standard operating procedures (SOPs) are followed.
He also urged staff who feel incapable of carrying out their duties to resign rather than endanger MBG beneficiaries.
“This is also a warning to others: you must be extra careful and work to the best of your ability. If you cannot do it, resign. Yes. If you feel incapable, resign. Do not make people’s lives a game. If you are not capable of being a kitchen head, if you are not capable of being a chef, if you are not capable of being a staff member there, just resign. Because a person’s life cannot be gambled with,” he stressed again.