Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals Program Funding Confirmed by Government and DPR
Jakarta – Concerns regarding potential budget cuts to Indonesia’s education sector due to the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program have been dismissed by both the government and the House of Representatives (DPR). Officials have affirmed that the MBG program’s funding was jointly approved and is included within the existing 2026 education budget.
Government and DPR Affirm Budget Allocation
Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya stated on Friday that allegations of reduced education funding as a result of the MBG program are unfounded. He emphasized that the 2026 education budget, amounting to 20 percent of the State Budget – approximately Rp769 trillion (nearly US$49 billion) – was agreed upon by the government and the DPR last year, with detailed allocations already in place. Antara News
Said Abdullah, Chairman of the DPR Budget Committee, echoed this sentiment, confirming that all factions unanimously approved the 2025 and 2026 State Revenue and Expenditure Budget (APBN), which included the MBG budget. Voi.id He affirmed his and the DPR’s responsibility for this decision and stated they would not retract their support for the program, which is a priority for President Prabowo Subianto.
MBG Program as Part of Broader Educational Initiatives
Officials clarified that the MBG program is intended to enhance, not detract from, existing educational initiatives. Programs such as the Smart Indonesia Card (KIP) and the Smart Indonesia Program (PIP) will continue, alongside new initiatives like the free boarding school program, Sekolah Rakyat, which targets school dropouts. Antara News
The government likewise highlighted ongoing efforts to improve school infrastructure, including the renovation of 16,000 schools in 2025 with a budget of approximately Rp17 trillion, and the expansion of digital learning infrastructure through the distribution of 280,000 smartboard units. Antara News
Governance Concerns Acknowledged
Although affirming budget support, DPR Chairman Said Abdullah acknowledged the need for improved governance of the MBG program. He emphasized that addressing governance issues is crucial to achieving the program’s goal of improving child nutrition. Voi.id
MBG Program and National Nutrition Goals
The MBG program is viewed as a key intervention to improve child nutrition across Indonesia, from early childhood education through senior high school. Kompas.id Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya emphasized that no educational programs have been reduced or halted due to the implementation of the MBG program, and policies to improve teacher welfare continue to be enhanced. Kompas.id
The government has also expanded educational programs by establishing People’s Schools, targeting children who have dropped out of school or never received formal education, providing them with educational facilities, dormitories, nutritious meals, and health guarantees. Kompas.id