Indonesia: New suspect named in 'Free Nutritious Meal' program corruption case

Indonesia's Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) continues its probe into alleged corruption within the "Makan Bergizi Gratis" (MBG) program for 2025-2026. The investigation has led to the naming of six suspects, including former officials and private sector individuals. The latest addition is Glory Harimas Sihombing, identified as the head of the Indonesia Food Security Review Foundation. Prosecutors allege that Sihombing, at the behest of former BGN head Dadan Hindayana, was tasked with finding partners for the nutrition program's service units (SPPG). However, Sihombing allegedly proceeded to sell these SPPG unit assignments to interested parties. The Kejagung also stated that Dadan Hindayana received funds from Sihombing, stemming from the sale of these SPPG assignments. Previously, the Kejagung had named five other suspects: former BGN head Dadan Hindayana, former BGN deputy heads Sony Sonjaya and Lodewyk Pusung, Sony's associate Asep Yusuf Somantri, and PT Yasa Artha Trimanunggal commissioner Andri Mulyono. The case involves allegations of inflated prices for goods, including electric motorcycles, shoes, tablets, and televisions, and the appointment of SPPG foundations that allegedly lacked the necessary qualifications.