Indonesia's 'Free Nutritious Meals' program constitutionally affirmed, to continue

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has affirmed that the 'Free Nutritious Meals' (Makan Bergizi Gratis - MBG) program will proceed as planned, following a decision by the Constitutional Court. The court's ruling, specifically Decision Number 40/PUU-XXIV/2026, does not halt the program but rather provides legal certainty for its ongoing implementation.

Sudaryono, the Head of BGN, stated that the Constitutional Court's decision reinforces the program's constitutional basis. "What needs to be emphasized is that the Constitutional Court's decision actually confirms that the Free Nutritious Meals program is a constitutional program," he said in a statement on Monday.

According to BGN's legal review, the court's ruling does not invalidate or stop the MBG program. Instead, it offers guidance on adjusting the budgeting mechanisms. This includes specific directives on how the program's budget should be calculated within the framework of mandatory spending allocated for education. The agency views the decision as a positive affirmation of the program's legitimacy and future.