DPR Seeks BGN Permit Revocation for Negligent SPPGs
Prioritizing quality: DPR Demands Stricter Oversight of Free Nutritious Meals Program
Jakarta – The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has issued a strong call to the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to revoke the permits of any nutritional fulfillment service units (SPPGs) found to be negligent, thereby jeopardizing the health and well-being of beneficiaries in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program. This directive underscores a critical shift in focus from mere beneficiary numbers to the paramount importance of the program’s quality and safety.
Quality Over Quantity: A Call for Accountability
Charles Honoris, Deputy Chair of Commission IX of the DPR, emphasized that the BGN’s mandate extends beyond simply tracking the number of individuals receiving MBG. “What is most important is the quality of MBG benefits,” Honoris stated, highlighting a recent productive meeting between his commission, the BGN, and the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM).
This collaborative session resulted in a crucial agreement: BPOM will now play an active role in supervising the food provided under the MBG program across all regions of Indonesia. This enhanced oversight is designed to ensure that the BGN, through its network of SPPGs nationwide, can effectively guarantee the health of children and other vulnerable groups participating in the initiative.
MBG Program: A Cornerstone of the Prabowo-Gibran Administration
Launched on January 6,2025,the MBG program is a flagship initiative of President Prabowo subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s 2024-2029 term. Its overarching goal is to significantly improve the nutritional status of key demographics, including children under five, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and schoolchildren up to the high school level.
President Prabowo has set ambitious targets for the program’s reach. He recently expressed his aim to have 20 million MBG beneficiaries by Indonesia’s Independence Day commemoration on August 17. During an address at the anniversary event of the National Awakening Party (PKB) on Wednesday, July 23, Prabowo shared an update, noting that the program had already reached 6.7 million beneficiaries. He indicated a push to accelerate this rollout, with projections suggesting the 20 million target could be met ahead of the original schedule.
The DPR’s renewed emphasis on quality control comes at a crucial juncture for the MBG program, aiming to build public trust and ensure the long-term success of this vital national undertaking.
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Translator: Bagus Ahmad, Raka Adji
Editor: Azis to establish
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