Teachers Cast Doubt on Indonesia's Free Meal Program Efficiency Claims Amid Budget Concerns

The Association of Education and Teachers (P2G) has expressed skepticism regarding the National Nutrition Agency's (BGN) claims about the efficiency and streamlining efforts for the free nutritious meal (MBG) program. This doubt stems from BGN's proposed budget ceiling of Rp270 trillion for 2027, which appears to contradict earlier discussions about cost-saving measures and program restructuring.

“

We have a reason to doubt that BGN is evaluating [the program].

Iman Zanatul Haeri, P2G's head of Advocacy, stated that the substantial budget proposal suggests a superficial commitment by BGN to evaluate President Prabowo Subianto's flagship program. "We have reason to doubt that BGN is evaluating [the program]," Iman said, highlighting a perceived disconnect between stated intentions and financial planning.

“

This shows that BGN did not consider, did not listen, and did not have the capability for evaluation.

According to Iman, the proposed budget conflicts with a constitutional review lawsuit filed by P2G concerning the use of education funds for the MBG program. He believes the government has not adequately addressed criticisms from educators and activists. "This shows that BGN did not consider, did not listen, and did not have the capability for evaluation," he asserted. The budget, with approximately Rp224 trillion allocated to the education function, is higher than the previous year's, leading P2G to conclude that the government prioritizes the meal program over enhancing educational quality.

“

If the budget for quality education is cut, then the goals of the MBG will not be achieved.

P2G argues that if the budget for quality education is reduced, the objectives of the MBG program itself will not be met. "If the budget for quality education is cut, then the goals of the MBG will not be achieved," Iman maintained, adding, "We have reason to consider that MBG is an enemy of education." They see a contradiction between BGN Head Nanik Sudaryati Deyang's promises of efficiency and the high budget proposal. P2G also urged Commission IX of the House of Representatives to clarify its stance on approving budget discussions for the program, emphasizing the public's need to understand the legislative body's position on using education funds for MBG.

“

We have reason to consider that MBG is an enemy of education.