Conducted by SUAR.id, a solutions journalism-based media, the study titled Survey of the World of Business: Corrections in the Management of the MBG Programme shows respondents believe the initiative yields tangible benefits, such as reducing family burdens and creating local jobs.
According to a statement received here on Tuesday, respondents realized that the goal of the MBG program was very good in improving the nutritional conditions of children up to 37.1 percent, preparing a better future for Indonesian children.
As many as 25.7 percent of respondents believe that by providing nutritious food to children at school, this program is also expected to help families in providing nutritious food for children.
This statement shows that the business and professionals see this program not merely as food aid, but as a long-term social investment to create a healthy and productive generation.
Besides its social benefits, the report also highlights the widespread economic impact of the MBG program. Experts interviewed in the research said that MBG could drive various other government programs in the food, MSME, and cooperative sectors.
"The MBG program must be able to act as a hub for other government programs, from providing food (especially local food) to creating jobs, both through the development of MSMEs and cooperatives. Therefore, the MBG program has a significant multiplier effect," they said.
This view shows that the program has the potential to become a locomotive for the people's economy, especially if it can connect farmers, MSMEs, and food cooperatives in an integrated production ecosystem.
Although appreciation of the program's objectives was quite good, most respondents reminded the importance of improvements in the implementation aspect.
Around 60 percent of respondents emphasized the importance of increasing regular monitoring and evaluation.
"The MBG program must be closely monitored, including food supply, food processing, and distribution," according to the research.
"Evaluation of the program also needs to be conducted periodically and comprehensively to address any gaps that remain," the research report added.
Translator: Mecca Yumna Ning Prisie, Katriana
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
