New BGN Chief Vows Not to Stop Free Meal Program Despite Criticism

Newly appointed National Nutrition Agency (BGN) chief Sudaryono has pledged to continue Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program, a key campaign promise of President Prabowo Subianto, despite facing criticism. Sudaryono emphasized that the government's focus will be on enhancing the program's governance rather than discontinuing it.

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The Nutritious Meals program was one of President Prabowo Subianto's campaign promises. It was planned long before the election, presented to the public during the campaign, and received a mandate from voters.

Sudaryono stated that the MBG program, which was presented to the public during the election campaign and received a mandate from voters, is intended for the people. The agency plans to strengthen oversight, ensure the quality and safety of the meals provided to students, and maximize the program's economic benefits, particularly for rural communities. He assured that the agency would remain receptive to criticism and public input.

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This is a program for the people and will be delivered to the people. We will continue to listen to criticism and public input.

Addressing concerns about potential conflicts of interest, Sudaryono explicitly denied any personal business connections to the program. He clarified that neither he nor his family members own public kitchens or Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) that supply meals under the MBG program. This statement comes amid acknowledgments that the program's implementation faces challenges, including governance issues and past alleged corruption cases involving former BGN officials.

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I do not own an SPPG unit or a public kitchen. None of my family members own one either.

Sudaryono's appointment follows the resignation of Nanik Sudaryati Deyang, who stepped down after 45 days citing health reasons. In her social media post, Deyang defended the MBG program, asserting it was not politically motivated, a sentiment she had held for 14 years working with President Prabowo.

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I have been with President Prabowo for 14 years, and I know for certain that the MBG program is not intended for political purposes, as some have alleged.