Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — The Indonesian government will allocate initial funding to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) participating in the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program, according to Minister of MSMEs Maman Abdurrahman. The initiative is part of President Prabowo Subianto’s directive to strengthen the involvement of MSMEs in the program.
“We have coordinated with state-owned banks under the Himbara network. God willing, a special financing scheme will be prepared to provide financial relief or initial funding,” Maman said during an event at Jakarta, on Saturday, January 25, as reported by CNN Indoneisa.
The funding aims to ease the financial burden on MSMEs when they first join the MBG program. Maman explained that the initial capital would become accessible once MSMEs receive an official letter from the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), which will serve as proof for securing the funding.
“Once they have the SPK (official letter) from BGN, the designated bank will directly top up their accounts, enabling them to purchase supplies or cover operational costs related to providing nutritious meals,” he said.
MSMEs Role in Free Meal Program
Maman highlighted the significant role of MSMEs, particularly catering businesses, in supporting the MBG program. He noted that approximately 30,900 catering MSMEs across Indonesia have the potential to become program partners.
President Prabowo has set an ambitious target for 2026 to establish 30,000 locations nationwide for the Free Nutritious Meal initiative. “The President’s goal is to have 30,000 points across Indonesia operational by next year,” Maman added.
Previously, Jonie Kusuma Hadi, Head Chef of SPPG Dapur Sehat Anak Bangsa, explained on the reimbursement system for MBG partners. MSMEs are required to use their own funds upfront, with reimbursements processed weekly by BGN.
“Partners handle the initial costs and later receive reimbursements from the National Nutrition Agency on a weekly basis. The food cost is set at Rp10,000 per meal,” Jonie explained, January 6.
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The government’s plan to provide initial funding marks a significant step in empowering MSMEs and ensuring their participation in delivering nutritious meals across Indonesia.
This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to tackling nutritional challenges while empowering MSMEs as key drivers of the economy, ensuring both public health and economic growth are addressed in tandem.
(Raidi/Agung)
