Government: MBG Beneficiaries Continue to Rise

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian Government reported that the number of beneficiaries of the Free Nutritious Meals Program (MBG) continues to increase through May 2026. So far, the number of beneficiaries has exceeded 61 million people, or around 74.8 percent of the national target of 82.9 million recipients.

Head of the Government Communication Office, Muhammad Qodari, in Jakarta, May 13, 2026, said the achievement shows that the MBG program is running in line with the government’s policy direction. According to him, the program is aimed at expanding access to nutritious food for communities across Indonesia.

He stressed that the government continues to strengthen governance to ensure the program is implemented effectively. “This program targets 82.9 million beneficiaries consisting of preschool, elementary, junior high, and senior high school students, Islamic boarding school students, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers across Indonesia,” he said.

He added that improvements are being carried out from upstream to downstream so the benefits of the program can be fully delivered. “These include planning and menu standards, selection and supervision of SPPG partners, SOPs, hygiene and distribution, as well as transparency and accountability in oversight,” Qodari stated.

In addition to the expansion of beneficiaries, the government also recorded improved readiness of supporting facilities. To date, the number of Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) has reached 28,390, with more than 55 percent already holding Hygiene and Sanitation Eligibility Certificates (SLHS).

Meanwhile, Director General of Livestock and Animal Health at the Ministry of Agriculture Agung Suganda said the supply of animal protein to support the MBG program remains secure. According to him, national production of key commodities is sufficient to meet domestic demand.

“With regard to animal protein needs for the Free Nutritious Meals Program, Indonesia is already self-sufficient in chicken meat and eggs,” Agung said. He added that the country is even running a surplus and has exported to several countries.

The MBG program is also considered to have a positive economic impact on national food businesses. Based on monitoring and evaluation results, most food suppliers recorded higher sales, while the government ensured the program would continue to be expanded gradually.