Student Research Uncovers Opportunities and Challenges for Free Meal Program in Villages

A field study by the Alliance of Students Answering (AMM) highlights the economic potential of the Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG) in Indonesian villages. The program can stimulate local economies through job creation and by utilizing local supply chains, according to the research. However, the study also uncovered significant challenges, especially concerning the effectiveness of village-owned enterprises (BUMDes) and ensuring sufficient local food supplies.

The findings were presented by AMM at a dissemination event at the National Development University (UPN) "Veteran" Jakarta. The research involved a live-in and participatory study at a nutrition service unit in Mekarbaru Village, Tangerang Regency, Banten. AMM, an alliance of 11 student organizations, conducted the study to observe MBG implementation at the village level and offer field-based feedback.

According to AMM representative Caesar Khalifah, the nutrition service unit serves approximately 2,500 beneficiaries, including students, toddlers, and pregnant women. The operation employs around 50 local workers, with about 80 percent drawn from the community's integrated social welfare data. The study noted that rice supplies come from a local mill, and daily needs for local products like chicken and fish have increased significantly since the program began.

Despite the positive economic impact, the research pointed to areas needing improvement. AMM found that the role of BUMDes and local cooperatives in managing the supply chain for raw materials is not yet optimal. Additionally, the demand for horticultural products like vegetables and fruits is still met by markets outside the village, indicating an incomplete local supply chain. AMM recommended strengthening BUMDes and cooperatives, enhancing support for local farmers and small businesses, and increasing transparency in program data. They also proposed regular nutritional status measurements by the National Nutrition Agency and the Ministry of Health to evaluate the program's effectiveness in reducing stunting and anemia.

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This program has the potential to provide economic impact for the community if managed according to regulations and involves local supply chains.