Heaptalk, Jakarta — The Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas), in collaboration with the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), IPB University, and UNICEF, launched the National Centre of Excellence (NCoE) for the free meal program. The launch occurred at IPB University, Bogor Regency, West Java, on Tuesday (02/11).
Minister of National Development Planning/Head of Bappenas, Rachmat Pambudy, emphasized that free nutritious meals (makan bergizi gratis, MBG) are a strategic initiative relevant to achieving the National Development Trident 2029, which includes economic growth, poverty alleviation and the development of quality human resources.
“MBG program aims to build a healthy, intelligent, and productive generation with several specific objectives. First, fulfilling the nutrition needs of pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, toddlers, and schoolchildren. Second, improving educational performance, participation, and attendance and reducing school dropouts. Third, the welfare of farmers, livestock breeders, fishers, MSMEs, and cooperatives should be increased. Fourth, creating job opportunities and reducing the burden on the poor,” explained Rachmat in his remarks.
Dadan Hindayana, Head of the National Nutrition Agency, confirmed that this initiative is a concrete commitment to achieving food security and improving the nutritional quality of the Indonesian population. He said, “The establishment of NCoE MBG is a strategic step to ensure that MBG runs effectively and sustainably. We want to ensure that all policies are based on strong data and research so that they have a real impact on public health.”
The success of the free nutritious meals program requires cross-sector support and a comprehensive approach. “We are not only focusing on providing nutritious food but also ensuring that the public understands the importance of balanced nutrition. For this reason, National Centre of Excellence for free meal program will become an information and education center for stakeholders,” Dadan voiced.
Since its inauguration on January 6, 2025, the free meal program aims to reach over 92.78 million toddlers, schoolchildren, students, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers as per the targets set in the National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN) 2025-2029. As one of President Prabowo Subianto’s Best Fast Result Programs (PHTC), this initiative aims to build a healthy, intelligent, and productive generation towards Golden Indonesia 2045.
