MBG Investor's Story: No Operations Despite Capital Outlay

Investors in Indonesia's free nutritious meal program (MBG) gathered in Jakarta to voice their support for the National Nutrition Agency, but also to air grievances about stalled operations. Sigit Buludawa, an investor who funded a facility in Gorontalo, expressed frustration that his "Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi" (SPPG), completed in November 2025, remains non-operational. He has already invested Rp 1 billion and incurred an additional Rp 1.8 billion in debt to cover initial costs.

“

Because of the payment delay, I had to replace Rp 1.8 billion of other people's money.

Buludawa stated that while he partnered directly with the agency's task force, there has been a lack of clear direction since the facility's completion. He noted that a designated head chef is in place and all necessary equipment is ready, but the operational "juknis" (technical guidelines) have been inconsistent. Initially, investors were promised reimbursement and that the facility would be managed by another party. Later, the guidelines changed, requiring facilities to join foundations, leaving investors in limbo.

“

The cooperation agreement has been signed, but the technical guidelines keep changing.

Herwil Junaidi Harefa shared a similar plight, reporting that he and his colleagues built 13 SPPG facilities in North and South Nias regencies, each costing approximately Rp 1.5 billion. These facilities, ready since October 2025, have also failed to launch operations. "My friends have a lot of debt," Harefa said, emphasizing that these projects were officially sanctioned and funded by them. "We demand clarity; it's been eight months."

“

My friends have a lot of debt. And this was all at official appointment with our funds. We demand clarity, it's been eight months.