AMP Article

Palace Rejects Student Demands to Stop Free Meal Program

Published Juni 15, 2026 · Updated Juni 15, 2026 · By Andi Permata

Palace Rejects Student Demands to Stop Free Meal Program

Government Defends Free Nutritious Meal Initiative Amid Protests

Palace Rejects Student Demands to Stop - Jakarta, TEMPO.CO – The Indonesian government has reaffirmed its commitment to the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program, rejecting calls from students to halt its operations. The decision comes in response to widespread demonstrations organized under the banner "Menuju Indonesia Bangkrut" (Towards Indonesia's Bankruptcy), which took place this week and drew significant attention to the program’s financial strain on public resources. A statement issued by the Government Communication Agency (Bakom) on Sunday, June 14, 2026, clarified that the MBG initiative remains a cornerstone of President Prabowo Subianto’s agenda. The agency’s head, Muhammad Qodari, emphasized that the program would continue despite the challenges it faces. "The MBG program is a vital priority, and the government, through the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), will persist in its implementation while refining its management," he asserted. Qodari’s remarks highlighted the government’s stance that obstacles in program execution are inevitable and do not justify discontinuation. "When translating ideas into action, variations and issues are expected," he explained. "Only the deceased are free of problems. As long as we remain active, challenges will arise." He argued that these hurdles are part of the process, not a reason to abandon the program.

Temporary Adjustments to MBG Implementation

In response to growing concerns, Qodari acknowledged that the BGN has taken steps to address inefficiencies. One such measure is the temporary suspension of new MBG kitchen construction, part of a broader restructuring effort. "This pause is not a cessation of services but a strategic recalibration," he stated. "Why should we stop? The benefits are tangible. Are we to tell pregnant women their pregnancies should end? Nursing mothers to stop breastfeeding? Toddlers to refuse food? Schoolchildren to go without meals?" The government’s position is that the MBG program’s positive impact outweighs its current operational challenges. Qodari defended the initiative by pointing to its role in addressing food insecurity, particularly in underserved communities. "The program provides essential nourishment to millions of Indonesians, and its continuation is critical to sustaining this progress," he said.

Student Protests Highlight Economic Concerns

The protests, which began last Friday and Saturday, were organized by students from multiple universities across the country. They accused the government of mismanaging public funds, with the MBG program identified as a major source of expenditure. Demonstrators argued that the program’s costs could be reduced by reallocating resources to more pressing needs. The "Menuju Indonesia Bangkrut" movement specifically called for the MBG program to be suspended, alongside other demands. These included reducing fuel and staple food prices, which have been rising steadily, and stopping the expansion of the Red and White Village Cooperative. Students also urged the military to return to barracks, suggesting that their involvement in civilian affairs was contributing to the nation’s financial woes. Similar sentiments were echoed in simultaneous demonstrations in Solo, Semarang, and Yogyakarta. Protests in these cities were coordinated to amplify pressure on the government, with participants emphasizing the need for fiscal responsibility. "The MBG program is a symbol of waste in a time of economic uncertainty," one protester said, according to reports.

Program’s Critics Demand Immediate Changes

The student movement’s demands reflect a broader public sentiment of discontent with the government’s economic policies. While the MBG program has been lauded for its role in feeding millions, critics claim it is diverting funds from other critical sectors. For instance, the program’s operational costs have been scrutinized as a potential drag on budget allocations for infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Qodari addressed these criticisms by stating that the BGN has been actively evaluating the program’s governance. "We are not merely maintaining the status quo; we are refining the process to ensure long-term sustainability," he said. The agency has introduced measures such as cost audits and efficiency reviews, aiming to optimize resource use without compromising the program’s core objectives.

Broader Implications for National Policy

The controversy surrounding the MBG program underscores the tension between social welfare and fiscal prudence. Supporters argue that the initiative is vital for reducing malnutrition and ensuring that vulnerable populations, including children and pregnant women, have access to regular meals. Opponents, however, contend that the program’s expansion has led to unnecessary expenses, particularly as inflation rates have climbed and public spending has surged. In his statement, Qodari reiterated that the MBG program aligns with the government’s vision of equitable development. "This initiative is not just about food; it is about building a resilient society capable of withstanding economic shocks," he said. He also cited the program’s reach, noting that it has already benefited over 20 million Indonesians in the past year.

Future of the MBG Program and Public Response

Despite the government’s defense, the student protests have sparked debate across social media and public forums. Many citizens have expressed mixed opinions, with some supporting the program and others questioning its long-term viability. "We need to ensure that every rupee spent is justified," said one Twitter user, #IndonesiaBankruptcy. Qodari, however, remains optimistic. "The MBG program will continue to evolve, adapting to the needs of the people while addressing administrative inefficiencies," he stated. He also highlighted that the temporary pause in kitchen construction does not impact existing meal distribution. "Services will remain uninterrupted, and we are committed to delivering results," he added. The situation highlights the growing importance of public accountability in governance. As the MBG program moves forward, its success will depend on the government’s ability to balance its social objectives with fiscal responsibility. For now, the palace has signaled its resolve to keep the program alive, even as protests continue to challenge its direction.

Palace Rejects Student Demands to Stop Free Meal Program