Yogyakarta Mothers Rally in Support of Government's Free Nutritious Meal Program

In Yogyakarta, Indonesia, hundreds of mothers gathered at the Zero Kilometer point to voice their strong support for the government's Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG). The rally, organized by the Alliance of Volunteers for the Nation's Welfare in the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY), aimed to counter growing criticism and demands for an evaluation of the program.

The participants, predominantly housewives and volunteers involved in the MBG's implementation, carried posters expressing their reliance on the program. One poignant message read, "If MBG is canceled, what will I do for work?" This sentiment highlights the economic impact the program has on families who depend on it for income.

Other posters declared "MBG is Beneficial" and "Broken Systems Can Be Fixed, Where Can We Find Jobs if We Lose Them?" These messages underscore the program's perceived value and the anxiety surrounding its potential discontinuation. The protesters emphasized that the program not only provides essential meals but also supports the livelihoods of many volunteers, enabling them to cover daily expenses and children's education costs.

Raihan Evan, the Field Coordinator, outlined three main demands: full support for the MBG's continuation, strict action against corrupt individuals regardless of their position, and a call for national unity. "We just want the MBG program to keep running," Evan stated, emphasizing that the income from the program sustains numerous families. The rally underscored the deep connection between the MBG and the economic stability of many households in the region.