MBG Program Seen as Good, but Its Implementation Is Too Forced
The Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program is seen as a positive step by the government in long-term human capital investment. However, public policy observer Muhammad Gumarang highlights its rushed implementation without thorough study. "The MBG program is good, but the implementation feels forced," he said on Saturday (5/16/2026).
Gumarang emphasized that the economic growth impact of MBG will only be felt in the long run, so it can't be expected to show results right away. He also reminded that the Rp335 trillion budget in 2026 would be a heavy burden on the state budget without proper planning.
He suggested the government carry out a comprehensive mapping of fiscal, geographic, socio-economic, and cultural conditions before a wide rollout. Moreover, the potential for budget leakage due to weak oversight and the integrity of officials is a serious risk that must be anticipated.
"The implementation of MBG should be gradual and tailored to the fiscal, geographic, socio-economic, and cultural conditions of the community so it's more effective and doesn't become a waste of budget," he concluded.
https://www.gelora.co/2026/05/