Indonesian Palace Investigates Alleged Corruption in Nutrition Program

The Indonesian Presidential Palace has confirmed that allegations of a "buying and selling" scheme involving positions within the free nutritious meal program, known as MBG (Makan Bergizi Gratis), are currently under internal audit. Minister and State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated that this investigation is part of the continuous monitoring and evaluation process for the program.

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Everything is currently in the internal audit process. That is part of, once again we convey, part of the continuous monitoring and evaluation that we carry out.

Hadi addressed questions linking the alleged illicit practices to the recent dismissal of three high-ranking officials from the National Nutrition Agency (BGN). He reiterated that all matters are undergoing internal audit as part of the government's ongoing assessment of its initiatives. President Prabowo Subianto has appointed Nanik Sudaryati Deyang as the new Head of BGN, replacing Dadan Hindayana. Two deputy positions, previously held by Sony Sanjaya and Lodewyk Pusung, are now filled by Agustina Arumsari and Major General TNI Trenggono.

The Presidential Palace asserts that these leadership changes are intended to strengthen the organization's performance and expedite the execution of BGN's priority programs. According to Hadi, President Prabowo's decision to restructure BGN's leadership was based on an evaluation of the past 1.5 years. This evaluation, which included input from various ministries and the public benefiting from the MBG project, highlighted concerns regarding discipline in adhering to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and maintaining the quality of food provided.

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There are a number of notes regarding the performance of BGN that became considerations for the Head of State. One of them is related to the issue of discipline in implementing standard operating procedures or SOPs.

Hadi expressed hope that the new leadership will rectify these issues. He emphasized the strategic role of the National Nutrition Agency in supporting the government's agenda for improving public nutrition. The new leaders, Nanik, Agustina, and Trenggono, have been urged to consolidate internally, strengthen inter-agency coordination, and ensure the smooth continuation of all BGN programs. Previously, on May 5, 2026, the Chief of Presidential Staff, Dudung Abdurachman, had pointed out potential corruption loopholes within the flagship MBG project.

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Then there is something related to the issue of discipline in implementing governance, including discipline in maintaining the quality of food that should have been set by the National Nutrition Agency.