Universities Can Establish Nutrition Units, Irma of NasDem Urges Prioritising the Public

The target is economic growth for the public, isn’t it? So the public should be prioritised first; don’t let the public struggle to set up their kitchens because institutions are also joining in,” said Irma to reporters on Wednesday (6/5/2026). Irma asked BGN to first evaluate nutrition kitchens that do not meet standards. She highlighted several problematic SPPGs due to human resources within them committing violations. “The most important thing right now is for BGN to evaluate kitchens that do not meet standards and naughty SPPGs in providing menus that have been reprimanded multiple times and should be closed,” said Irma. “In addition, BGN’s human resources in each SPPG must also be evaluated if that SPPG is corrupt,” she added. Irma stated she has no issue with universities participating in establishing SPPGs. However, she wants the establishment of SPPGs not to disrupt the teaching and learning process. “Regarding BGN involving universities to participate in building SPPGs, I think it’s fine as long as it doesn’t disrupt the teaching and learning process because SPPGs are business-oriented,” said Irma. Irma then highlighted the opening of SPPGs that have already been closed by BGN at present. The NasDem legislator wants clear and measurable information regarding that. “In my opinion, BGN must be clear first. The information is that the opening of SPPGs has been closed, considering that those currently in process have sufficiently met the SPPG needs across Indonesia. Moreover, many members of the public who have already built SPPGs 100% are now confused due to the rollback decision, leaving their fates uncertain,” said Irma. “Previously, they were told to build the structures first and then process them once 100% complete; some came to the DPR to complain about their fates because they had already built but are confused because the portal is closed,” she added. Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, previously stated that universities could consider having at least one Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG). This was said to help improve national nutrition. “I think universities need to understand this, because this is a big opportunity. At minimum, have one SPPG first, and if possible, the supplies come from the academic community itself,” said Dadan, quoted from Antara, on Thursday (30/6/2026). Universities in Indonesia that currently have SPPGs include Universitas Hasanuddin (Unhas). Then also IPB University and several private universities. “IPB already has one, several private higher education institutions already have them, but the first in a state university in eastern Indonesia, Unhas is always leading in such matters and I congratulate them,” said Dadan, quoted from detikSulsel, on Thursday (30/6/2026).