This study evaluates the proposed Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) Program under the Prabowo–Gibran administration, using survey data from 1,858 respondents nationwide. CELIOS finds that nearly half of Indonesian households experience food insecurity, with the highest vulnerability among low-income families earning below IDR 2 million per month. While the program receives broad public support, concerns arise over potential corruption, uneven food quality, and inefficiency if implemented hastily. The analysis warns that reliance on foreign debt for funding could worsen fiscal pressures without addressing structural food issues.
The report recommends a gradual, transparent rollout emphasizing local food sourcing and community involvement. It suggests empowering local SMEs, monitoring distribution chains, and ensuring participation by regional governments to prevent leakage. With stronger governance and evidence-based targeting, the program could not only improve nutrition but also stimulate local agricultural economies and public trust in social protection initiatives.
Bibliography:
Askar, M. W., Muhammad, G. D., Fikri, B., & Darmawan, J. (2025). Who Goes Hungry? Who Gets Full? Strategies to Mitigate Risks in the Free Nutritious Meal Program. Center of Economic and Law Studies (CELIOS).