New BGN Chief Nanik S. Deyang Pledges Tight Budget Controls After MBG Graft Case
Nanik S. Deyang Vows Tight Budget Controls After MBG Graft Case
New BGN Chief Nanik S Deyang - Following the recent corruption scandal at the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), President Prabowo Subianto has appointed Nanik S. Deyang as the new chief of the organization. The ceremonial swearing-in took place at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on June 8, 2026, marking a critical shift in the agency’s leadership. Nanik, who previously served as a Deputy Director of BGN, now assumes responsibility for restoring financial discipline and ensuring the MBG program operates efficiently. Her appointment signals a commitment to addressing the mismanagement that led to the graft case, which implicated former officials in misuse of public funds.
Amid heightened public scrutiny, Nanik S. Deyang has pledged to implement rigorous budget controls to prevent future scandals. The MBG program, designed to provide free meals to vulnerable communities, faced criticism due to allegations of embezzlement under its previous leadership. Nanik emphasized her dedication to transparency, stating, "I will not proceed with any financial decisions without Nanik S. Deyang’s approval," during her inauguration. This statement underscores her role in overseeing the agency’s fiscal reforms and rebuilding trust among stakeholders.
"I will not proceed with any financial decisions without Nanik S. Deyang’s approval."
Nanik’s new deputy, Agustina Arumsari, is expected to play a key role in enforcing these changes. Arumsari, who has experience in financial oversight at the BPKP agency, brings expertise in monitoring public expenditures. The president’s office highlighted that her appointment strengthens the BGN’s capacity to manage resources effectively. "Bu Arumsari’s background will help Nanik S. Deyang’s team navigate this phase with confidence," added a spokesperson, reflecting the collaborative approach to the agency’s restructuring.
Under Nanik S. Deyang’s leadership, the BGN aims to enhance budget efficiency without reducing the program’s reach. She stressed that every rupee allocated to MBG must directly benefit the target population. "Our goal is to optimize resources so that each allocation contributes to the well-being of those in need," she explained. This strategy aligns with the government’s broader objective of reducing fiscal strain amid economic uncertainties.
Leadership Transition and Appointments
The swearing-in ceremony marked a pivotal moment in the BGN’s leadership transition. Alongside Nanik S. Deyang, two other deputy roles were filled by Trenggono and Agustina Arumsari. The former officials, Sony Sonjaya and Lodewyk Pusung, were replaced after being charged in the corruption investigation. Their removal has prompted a reassessment of the agency’s administrative structure, with a focus on rectifying systemic weaknesses. "Nanik S. Deyang’s team will work tirelessly to rebuild trust in the MBG initiative," said a presidential spokesperson.
President Prabowo’s decision to appoint Said Iqbal as a Special Advisor for Labor and Worker Welfare complements Nanik S. Deyang’s new role. Iqbal, also president of the Labor Party and the Indonesian Trade Union Confederation (KSPI), brings expertise in labor advocacy. His advisory role will ensure that nutritional programs align with labor welfare policies. "This appointment reinforces Nanik S. Deyang’s focus on integrating public health with social equity," the spokesperson added, highlighting the interdisciplinary approach to governance.
Reforms and Public Accountability
Nanik S. Deyang’s commitment to transparency has drawn cautious optimism from stakeholders. The agency now aims to reduce waste and enhance accountability, particularly in programs like MBG that rely heavily on state funding. "We must ensure Nanik S. Deyang’s reforms make the MBG initiative a lasting solution for food insecurity," she stated. This focus on efficiency is expected to streamline operations and restore public confidence in the agency’s governance.
As the new chief, Nanik S. Deyang has emphasized the importance of public accountability in every financial decision. Her leadership is seen as a key step in addressing the systemic issues exposed by the graft case. "Nanik S. Deyang’s administration will prioritize strict oversight to guarantee that no funds are misused," said a government official. These measures are designed to align the BGN with national goals of fiscal responsibility and social welfare.