Free Nutritious Meals Boost Regional Economy

JAKARTA – The Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Program, which was officially launched on January 6, 2025, has received widespread appreciation from various parties. Deputy Chairman of the State Financial Accountability Agency (BAKN) of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Herman Khaeron, assessed that this program not only meets the nutritional needs of the community, but also becomes a driver of regional economic growth.

“In addition to providing nutritional intake, the MBG program is also a new economic generator in the region,” said Herman.

Khaeron explained that MBG, which was initiated by the government of President Prabowo Subianto, was able to provide a significant impact in both the health and economic sectors. By ensuring sufficient nutritional intake for children at elementary, junior high, and high school levels, this program is expected to produce a superior generation that is ready to welcome Indonesia Emas 2045.

“The golden generation is a generation whose economy is advanced, fair, and prosperous. With the MBG program, we are investing in the future of the nation,” said Herman.

According to him, the MBG program also involves local potential by empowering farmers, traders, and MSMEs in the region. From an economic perspective, local raw materials are the main element in providing nutritious food through the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG).

“The regional economy increases through the involvement of local farmers and entrepreneurs who provide commodities such as vegetables, fish, meat, and eggs. This creates a positive domino effect for the local economy,” he added.

The Head of the Bogor City Regional Development Planning Research and Innovation Agency (Bapperida), Rudy Mashudi, expressed similar sentiments. According to him, the government budget of IDR 71 trillion for the MBG program must be optimally utilized to support the regional economy.

“This program involves a network of local farmers and MSMEs so that it can be a lever for the economy in the region. The multiplier effect is large,” said Rudy.

Meanwhile, the Head of the Presidential Communications Office, Hasan Nasbi, emphasized that MBG not only aims to improve the quality of human resources (HR), but also empower hundreds of MSMEs. Until now, hundreds of MSMEs have been involved as part of the MBG program supply chain.

“This program not only reduces the level of malnutrition and stunting, but also drives the local economy by involving MSMEs, farmers, and fishermen. This is a real manifestation of inclusive development,” explained Hasan.

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