Habiburokhman, chairman of the House Commission III, compared managing the MBG initiative to organizing a daily national festival, which inevitably encounters problems.
“Every program is bound to have issues. Even when hosting a festive gathering, there are always problems—missing spoons or not enough food. Now imagine this happening nationwide every day,” he said during a public hearing with university students at the parliamentary complex in Jakarta.
Despite reported issues, Habiburokhman emphasized Parliament’s ongoing backing for the program, highlighting government efforts to address challenges and the public’s positive reception.
He noted widespread community support and said he has not encountered groups opposing the program. Similar initiatives abroad have also shown significant benefits.
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During his recess, Habiburokhman regularly visits communities and hears firsthand how valuable the program is in meeting children’s nutritional needs.
“What is not working, we will fix. What is already working, we support—that is fairness. Let’s not be used in certain situations,” he added.
Launched on January 6, 2025, the MBG program is a key priority of President Prabowo Subianto aimed at improving nutrition for children under five, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and schoolchildren through high school.
With a target of 82.9 million beneficiaries, the program is among Indonesia’s largest social initiatives.
As of October 3, the Ministry of Finance reported Rp20.6 trillion (about US$1.23 billion) spent, covering 31.2 million beneficiaries. This represents 29 percent of the total Rp71 trillion budget ceiling.
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Translator: Bagus Ahmad, Kuntum Khaira Riswan
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
