Indonesia Expands Free Nutritious Meal Program to Combat Malnutrition

Comprehensive Expansion Plan

President Prabowo Subianto has announced that Indonesia will expand its Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG) to all villages nationwide by December 2026 ¹

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Source 4

https://nasional.kontan.co.id/news/janji-prabowo-seluruh-desa-bakal-terima-mbg-pada-tahun-ini

. The ambitious initiative, currently benefiting 55 million people, is set to reach 82.9 million beneficiaries in 2026, representing a significant increase in coverage ³

Source 3

https://finance.detik.com/berita-ekonomi-bisnis/d-8295643/mbg-dapat-anggaran-rp-335-t-prabowo-wanti-wanti-soal-ini

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Budget Allocation and Implementation

The government has allocated a substantial budget of Rp 335 trillion for the MBG program in 2026, demonstrating its commitment to improving nutrition among vulnerable populations ³

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Source 5

https://finance.detik.com/berita-ekonomi-bisnis/d-8296242/prabowo-targetkan-semua-desa-di-ri-dapat-mbg-desember-2026

. Minister Secretary of State Prasetyo Hadi confirmed that the budget allocation has been included in the 2026 State Budget (APBN) ³

Source 3

https://finance.detik.com/berita-ekonomi-bisnis/d-8295643/mbg-dapat-anggaran-rp-335-t-prabowo-wanti-wanti-soal-ini

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Addressing Current Challenges

While the program has made significant progress, President Prabowo acknowledged that the current coverage is still below the initial target of 82.9 million beneficiaries. He expressed commitment to ensuring that all villages receive the program by the end of 2026, citing the need to address malnutrition and improve human resource quality ¹

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Program Impact and Significance

The MBG program targets children, pregnant women, and other vulnerable groups, aiming to break the cycle of poverty and inequality from an early age. Experts view the program as a crucial investment in human resources rather than mere social expenditure, given the long-term economic benefits of improved nutrition ²

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Program Adaptability and Emergency Response

The MBG program has demonstrated its adaptability during crises, such as natural disasters. During recent disasters in Sumatra, the program's infrastructure was repurposed to provide meals for affected communities, showcasing its potential as both a nutrition program and an emergency response mechanism ²

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