National Nutrition Agency Head Unconcerned by TNI-Polri Involvement in Free Nutritious Meal Program

The head of Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sudaryono, stated that the involvement of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and National Police (Polri) in the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program is not a concern. He believes all parties should be able to participate in implementing the program, which is a priority for President Prabowo Subianto.

Sudaryono drew a parallel to his experience in the agricultural sector, where he involved the TNI and Polri in distributing 70,000 water pumps to farmers during a dry season due to a lack of budget for logistics. He emphasized that the core objective is the successful execution of the program, regardless of who is involved.

The MBG program is designed not only to fulfill children's nutritional needs but also to positively impact the local economy. It aims to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), farmers, and ranchers in the surrounding areas. The BGN's technical guidelines for the MBG program in fiscal year 2026 involve collaboration across dozens of ministries and institutions, covering policy support, budgeting, oversight, and technical implementation.

Beyond civilian ministries and agencies, the TNI and Polri are involved in supporting the MBG program's operations, focusing on assistance, security for distribution, and ensuring smooth operations in various regions. Both institutions also manage numerous nutrition fulfillment service units (SPPGs), with the TNI operating 452 and the Polri managing 1,376 as of September last year and May 2026, respectively.