Gapembi clarifies stance on halting MBG program during school holidays

The Indonesian Association of Food Entrepreneurs (Gapembi) has clarified its position regarding the "Free Nutritious Meal" (MBG) program, stating that its objection is not to the temporary suspension of the program's kitchens during school holidays, but rather to the process by which the decision was made.

Alven Stony, the Chairman of Gapembi, explained that the organization's concern stems from the perceived lack of adequate communication and consultation with implementing partners who are directly affected by the decision. "We need to clarify this to avoid public misunderstanding," Stony stated.

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We need to clarify this to avoid public misunderstanding.

Gapembi emphasizes that its partners have been fully committed to the success of this national strategic program. Therefore, any policy changes that impact operations, resources, supply chains, or financing should be discussed beforehand to ensure a smooth implementation without creating new issues. The association's stance, expressed in a press conference, specifically targets the seventh point of the "Asta Aspirasi Mitra BGN," which rejects the recent circular regarding the suspension, deeming it contradictory to existing regulations.

"The issue is not simply whether the kitchens are closed or not," Stony added, highlighting that the core problem lies in the decision-making methodology, which they believe was made unilaterally without prior consultation with the partners who manage the program on the ground.

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The issue is not simply whether the kitchens are closed or not.