Prabowo Requests Local Governments To Redirect MBG Funds For School Repairs

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has requested that the regional budget allocated for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program be redirected to improve school facilities. This was stated by Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian after discussing budget efficiency to support government priority programs during a working meeting with Commission II of the Indonesian House of Representatives on Monday (February 3, 2025). Tito mentioned that Prabowo has directed the MBG program to be centrally managed by the National Nutrition Agency (BGN). "Some regions have already budgeted for this and included it in the unexpected expenditure category, but we have reported this to the President," Tito said on Monday.

"In the plenary meeting, it was mentioned that the MBG program will be implemented centrally by the National Nutrition Agency," he added. Tito explained that Prabowo does not want the program's implementation to create additional issues, such as neglecting the condition of school facilities. "We shouldn't build kitchens while classrooms have leaks, uneven chairs, and inadequate facilities," Tito remarked. He emphasized that education budgets at the regional level should not be used for the MBG program. He also noted Prabowo's particular concern for improving inadequate toilet facilities in schools.

"The education budget should not be spent on Free Nutritious Meals but should be used to enhance schools, especially toilets," Tito clarified. "He places great emphasis on toilet conditions, and this is a priority for us. All schools, including elementary, middle, and high schools, must have proper toilets," he concluded. Previously, Tito revealed that local governments are expected to contribute nearly IDR 5 trillion for the MBG program throughout 2025, with IDR 2.3 trillion from city and district governments and IDR 2.5 trillion from provincial governments.

He stated this after a meeting with several ministers and President Prabowo Subianto at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Friday, January 17, 2025.

Tag: Free Nutritious Meal MBG Prabowo Subianto