Indonesia’s Deputy Minister for Population and Family Development, Ratu Ayu Isyana Bagoes Oka, has called for a significant expansion of the national Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program. In a statement released on Monday, she advocated for increased coverage targeting pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and non-preschool toddlers, collectively known as the 3B group.
The deputy minister emphasized the necessity of broadening the program’s reach by directing more nutrition fulfillment service units (SPPGs), which function as MBG kitchens, specifically to serve the 3B group. She also proposed enhancing the frequency of meal provision for these beneficiaries from twice a week to daily.
Oka further specified that meal menus should prioritize healthier, freshly prepared food and avoid ultra-processed ingredients. These proposed enhancements are designed to combat stunting during the crucial first 1,000 days of life, aligning with President Prabowo Subianto’s “Golden Indonesia 2045” vision. The Ministry of Population and Family Development is responsible for administering the MBG program for the 3B group, a mandate established by a presidential regulation last year.
Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan confirmed that the government is currently developing a derivative regulation. This new regulation aims to refine the operational aspects of the MBG program for its 3B beneficiaries. He noted that while distribution to the 3B group has been effective, continuous improvements are essential for the development of the nation’s children.
Minister Hasan also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve the quality and governance of SPPGs, acknowledging existing operational shortcomings. As of March 30, 2026, the program has served 61,680,043 individuals across 38 provinces, supported by 26,066 SPPGs. However, 2,162 of these kitchens have been temporarily suspended for evaluation to ensure adherence to program standards.
Source: Original
