Jakarta, June 4, 2026 – The Europe Today: Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on Wednesday emphasized the importance of integrity, transparency, and accountability in the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program, urging all stakeholders to ensure that the initiative achieves its intended objectives without deviation or misuse.
Speaking at the “Building Indonesia’s Future Generations Through Nutrition” event in Bogor District, West Java, the president reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding the program from abuse of authority, irregularities, or misappropriation.
President Prabowo stated that recent decisions to replace several parties involved in the program’s implementation were taken following reports of shortcomings and alleged irregularities on the ground. He noted that while such decisions were difficult, they were necessary to protect public interest, adding that he was guided by the values and advice of his late father, Prof. Sumitro Djojohadikusumo, who stressed the importance of prioritizing the people in every policy decision.
The president underlined that strong leadership is a key determinant of success in public programs, including the national free meal initiative.
On the occasion, he highlighted the role of the Indonesian Development Activist Graduates (SPPIs) as key implementers of the program at the grassroots level, including in the management of MBG kitchens across various regions. He said SPPIs have been prepared to lead program execution with a strong sense of public service and national responsibility.
President Prabowo further called on all MBG kitchen managers and SPPIs to strengthen oversight mechanisms to prevent practices that could erode public trust in the program.
Launched in early 2025, the MBG program aims to improve the nutritional status of children under five, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and schoolchildren up to the high school level across Indonesia.
