Minister Purbaya Says BGN to Implement Further Budget Savings

Minister Purbaya Announces BGN’s Plan for Additional Budget Cuts

Tempatdonasi.com – In Jakarta, Tempo.CO reported that Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has indicated that the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is set to introduce additional budget reductions for its initiatives. However, he emphasized that these adjustments will not compromise the standard of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Program, which is a key government initiative aimed at addressing food insecurity across the nation. Purbaya’s comments were made during a recent press conference, where he addressed concerns about the program’s sustainability in the face of financial constraints.

Meeting Details and Proposed Savings

The proposal was outlined during a gathering at the Finance Ministry on Thursday, June 25, by Nanik S. Deyang, the director of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN). Although the exact amount of the proposed reductions was not revealed, Purbaya characterized the figures as “substantial” in nature. He reiterated that the BGN’s plan is being developed to ensure fiscal responsibility without sacrificing the program’s core objectives.

“Yesterday, I had a meeting with the head of the National Nutrition Agency. She informed me that there are plans for additional cost reductions in the BGN program, which she described as ‘quite significant.’ However, she will be the one to formally announce the details,” Purbaya stated during a press conference in Jakarta on Friday, June 26, as reported by Antara.

Purbaya highlighted that these efficiency measures are designed to maintain the nutritional integrity of the MBG program. “The meals will stay consistent, and the food will remain nutritious,” he assured. While not a nutrition specialist, he noted that BGN intends to bolster its workforce by hiring additional nutritionists, ensuring that the program’s quality is upheld through enhanced human resources.

Challenges in Regional Implementation

Purbaya mentioned that the head of BGN also highlighted several obstacles in executing the nationwide meal initiative, especially in managing operations across regional locations. These challenges include logistical difficulties, inconsistent resource allocation, and the need for greater oversight to maintain uniform standards. The minister acknowledged that these issues could impact the program’s effectiveness if not addressed proactively.

In response to these challenges, the Finance Ministry is planning to send staff to regional areas to assist in monitoring the activities of Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPGs), which handle the preparation and distribution of meals through the program. “I said, if that’s the case, then the Finance Ministry will step in at the regional level. My staff in the regions will regularly monitor the SPPGs. That way, I have the means to oversee how the budget is being used,” he said, emphasizing the importance of transparency in fund utilization.

Support for Efficiency and Program Continuity

Although Purbaya declined to specify the size of the planned budget cuts, he expressed confidence in the necessity of continued efficiency measures as long as they do not disrupt the program’s operations. “I agree with the efficiency, especially if more savings can be made. But the program must continue,” he said, underscoring the government’s commitment to maintaining the MBG Program’s availability for vulnerable populations.

Earlier in the 2026 state budget, the government had already trimmed the MBG Program’s funding from Rp335 trillion (approximately US$20.5 billion) to Rp268 trillion (around US$16.4 billion). Now, the possibility of additional savings is being examined, as per recent discussions. Purbaya stressed that these measures are part of a broader strategy to ensure the program’s long-term viability while adapting to economic pressures.

The MBG Program, which aims to provide free nutritious meals to underserved communities, has been a cornerstone of Indonesia’s efforts to combat malnutrition. With the current budget adjustments, the government is focused on maintaining this critical service while optimizing resources. Purbaya acknowledged that the savings would require careful planning to avoid any adverse effects on the program’s reach or quality. He also mentioned that BGN is exploring ways to streamline operations, including the integration of new technologies and the refinement of supply chain management.

Despite the focus on cost-cutting, Purbaya emphasized that the nutritional standards of the MBG Program remain a top priority. “The meals will remain the same. It’s confirmed that the food will continue to be nutritious,” he said, reinforcing the government’s dedication to public health. The minister also pointed out that the savings would be used to expand the program’s capacity, particularly in underserved regions where access to nutritious food is limited. This approach aligns with the government’s goal of ensuring equitable distribution of resources across all provinces.