Nutrition Program Fails to Absorb Local Goods; Officials Threaten Suspension

Central Java's free nutritious meal program is facing criticism for failing to absorb local commodities, prompting calls for action from regional officials. The head of the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) Semarang, Hadiriajaya, urged regional leaders to issue suspension recommendations for any nutrition providers that do not source raw materials from local farmers and breeders.

This directive came during a coordination meeting on the supply chain for the free nutritious meal program in Central Java's provincial government office. Several deputy regents expressed concerns that local agricultural and livestock products were not being utilized, despite the program's design to enhance the welfare of local producers. Hadiriajaya explained that while foundations and partners manage the procurement of raw materials, SPPG heads are responsible for ensuring prices do not exceed the highest retail price.

However, Hadiriajaya emphasized that regional heads have the authority to recommend suspension if they find SPPG foundations or partners are not purchasing from local suppliers. These recommendations should be sent to the SPPG offices in Semarang or Sleman, which will then initiate suspension proceedings. Central Java currently has approximately 4,635 SPPG units, with 4,060 actively operating, covering 20 regencies and cities under KPPG Semarang and 15 regencies and cities under KPPG Sleman.