The Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program, a major initiative by the Prabowo Subianto-Gibran Rakabumung Raka administration, has drawn concerns from economists and policymakers over its financial sustainability and implementation challenges.
Economist Wijayanto Samirin warned that the MBG program could strain Indonesia’s budget.
“Nearly US$32 billion per year will be allocated for the Free Nutritious Meals program, despite ongoing fiscal constraints,” Samirin said as quoted in a statement on Thursday, February 13, 2025.
The program’s budget has surged from US$4.5 billion to $10.8 billion, leading to budget cuts in health, education, and infrastructure.
“The government must be cautious, as the public will become highly critical if MBG is not properly executed,” Samirin said.
He reminded the government to ensure sustainability of the program, while citong that once the MBG program is implemented, it cannot be reversed without severe public backlash.
“If the [meals] composition is reduced or adjustments are made, citizens will protest,” he said.
Economic, implementation challenges
Didik J. Rachbini, Rector of Paramadina University, on the other hand warned of potential flaws in MBG’s execution.
“Although fulfilling a campaign promise is necessary, managing a supply chain for millions of children is a complex task,” he noted.
A key issue is rent-seeking behavior, with concerns that large businesses may monopolize the program benefits, while sidelining small food vendors.
“If Prabowo prioritizes remote and malnourished regions first, the program could be more effective,” Rachbini said.
Nutritional, psychological concerns
Meanwhile, Fatchiah E. Kertamuda, Vice Rector of Paramadina University, raised concerns about MBG’s nutritional adequacy for different age groups.
“Has the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) been fully established and prepared to operate nationwide?” she asked.
She emphasized the need for strong coordination between central and local governments, as well as schools and communities.
“Is a proper monitoring and evaluation system in place?” she said, while warning that improper execution could impact children’s mental and physical development.
With these concerns in mind, experts asks the Prabowo administration to refine its strategy, ensuring the program’s long-term sustainability and effectiveness while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
