Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, has confirmed that the government’s budget absorption for nutrition-related programs is on track to reach the Rp27.1 trillion (US$1.75 billion) target by the end of 2025.

Currently there are already 8.018 SPPGs (kitchens associated with the government’s free nutritious meal program or MBG) and in the next 10 days, the agency will have absorbed Rp 4 trillion (US$258 million). If the agency can provide 14,000 SPPGs by September end, there will be an additional Rp14 trillion (US$903 million) that can be absorbed this month.

In October 2025, the agency will increase the number of SPPGs to 21,000, while November will see an expected Rp24 trillion (US$1.55 billion) absorbed, bringing the total absorption closer to the year-end target.

“We have already made detailed calculations, and based on our assumptions, we are confident that the entire Rp27.1 trillion will be absorbed by the end of the year,” Dadan told a hearing with the health and manpower Commission IX of the House of Representatives (DPR) on Monday, September 15, 2025. “This will be achieved through continuous efforts to improve the absorption of funds and boost our SPPG programs.”

He cited that local food sources, like peanuts and bananas, play a crucial role in fulfilling this demand. "We have seen increased interest from local farmers, and we are committed to ensuring these products are purchased directly by the SPPG program."

He, however, noted that the program had temporarily suspended new registrations due to the large number of applicants and the need for verification of their seriousness.

“We are currently working with over 29,000 participants, but some were removed from the program due to non-compliance,” he said.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Health, and Statistics Indonesia, BGN aims to ensure successful food distribution, particularly in underserved 3T (Remote, Outermost, and Frontier) regions.

Dadan concluded by reiterating the agency’s commitment to strengthening local food supply chains and creating more opportunities for local farmers. “This initiative will not only address food security but also stimulate local economies,” he said.