Nutrition Agency Head Denies 'Free Meal' Program Drains State Budget

Sudaryono, head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), has voiced frustration over social media commentary suggesting the government's "Free Nutritious Meal" (MBG) program is depleting state funds and hindering other essential projects. He clarified that the MBG program does not consume the entire national budget nor does it halt other government initiatives.

"I get annoyed seeing comments on social media as if this MBG is spending the state budget. And as if this is lacking, that is lacking. Whereas, other programs are still being worked on," Sudaryono stated during a press conference in Jakarta. He asserted that various development programs across different sectors are proceeding concurrently.

As an example, Sudaryono pointed to the agricultural sector. He explained that issues concerning fertilizer availability were already being addressed before the MBG program began. Even with the MBG program requiring significant funding, the government continues to ensure sufficient fertilizer supply and offers more affordable pricing policies. Similarly, he noted that the revitalization of irrigation networks is ongoing.

"There is already a budget used for MBG, then fertilizer is supplied, the price is discounted. Before MBG, many irrigation networks were damaged. Now there is MBG, there is still irrigation revitalization," Sudaryono said, emphasizing that infrastructure improvements continue despite the substantial budget allocated to the MBG program.