Indonesian Police Target Building 1,500 MBG Kitchens in 2026

Indonesian Police Expand Food Security Efforts with 1,500 MBG Kitchens Target

Tempatdonasi.com – On the 80th anniversary of the Indonesian National Police, Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo emphasized the institution’s commitment to bolstering the nation’s food security initiatives. Speaking at the Mobile Brigade Training Unit in Bogor, West Java, he outlined plans to strengthen the government’s nutritional programs by increasing the number of Service Units for Nutritional Fulfillment (SPPG), also known as MBG kitchens, across Indonesia. The goal, set for 2026, involves constructing 1,500 such facilities nationwide, according to his statement.

Supporting Agricultural Growth Through Financial Partnerships

Prabowo highlighted the police’s collaboration with state-owned banks to facilitate access to People’s Business Credit (KUR) financing for farmers. This initiative aims to ease financial barriers and promote large-scale corn cultivation, a key component of the country’s strategy for achieving self-sufficiency in food and energy. He noted that the total potential planting area for corn is projected to reach 1.37 million hectares, a significant expansion from previous years.

“The President has directed us to speed up the progress toward food and energy independence,” Prabowo stated during the event. “This requires coordinated efforts with agricultural stakeholders to ensure resources are allocated effectively.”

The police have also reported that their supported corn harvests have totaled 5.7 million tons from 2025 to the second quarter of 2026. This achievement underscores the progress made in integrating law enforcement with rural development projects. In addition to corn, the police are working with 30 farmer groups in Sembalun, West Nusa Tenggara, to enhance garlic production. The program has yielded 18,960 tons of garlic from 948 hectares of farmland, demonstrating the versatility of their approach.

MBG Kitchens: A Nationwide Network for Nutritional Access

As part of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program, the police are actively expanding the number of SPPG kitchens. By June 2026, 1,415 of these facilities had already been established, with varying stages of readiness. Of the total, 828 kitchens were operational, 227 were in the process of being prepared for use, and 360 remained under construction. Notably, 33 of the new kitchens were built in underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost (3T) regions, addressing food access challenges in remote areas.

Prabowo outlined that these kitchens are expected to benefit 3.5 million people while creating employment opportunities for 70,700 workers. The program’s infrastructure includes both urban and rural locations, ensuring a widespread reach. The expansion of MBG kitchens is viewed as a critical step in reducing hunger and improving dietary habits across the archipelago.

Quality Assurance and Institutional Certifications

Alongside the construction efforts, the police have focused on ensuring the quality and safety of meals served through the MBG program. Prabowo revealed that 348 sanitation certificates, 146 halal product assurance certificates, and 285 water laboratory test certificates had been issued to the kitchens. These certifications reflect the institution’s dedication to maintaining high standards in food preparation and hygiene.

Moreover, the police have trained 305 chefs to oversee meal production. This initiative not only enhances the nutritional value of the meals but also empowers local communities by building expertise in culinary arts. The training program is part of a broader effort to professionalize the food supply chain and align it with national health objectives.

Introducing the Nusantara Bhayangkara Taste Book

As a further contribution to the food security mission, the police have compiled the *Nusantara Bhayangkara Taste Book*. This resource features 80 carefully designed menus that aim to diversify food options while adhering to nutritional guidelines. The book is intended to serve as a tool for both government officials and the public, promoting awareness of balanced diets and indigenous culinary practices.

Prabowo emphasized that the expansion of SPPG kitchens and the development of the taste book are interconnected efforts. “We are not just providing meals; we are cultivating a culture of healthy eating and sustainable agriculture,” he added. The program’s success relies on its ability to merge practical food distribution with educational components that reinforce long-term dietary habits.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite the progress, Prabowo acknowledged ongoing challenges in ensuring uniform implementation across regions. He stressed the importance of continuous monitoring and support to maintain the quality of meals and the efficiency of corn and garlic cultivation. The police are also exploring partnerships with private sectors to scale up production and distribution, particularly in underserved areas.

Looking ahead, the institution plans to integrate technology into its agricultural support systems. This includes using data analytics to optimize planting schedules and monitor crop yields. Additionally, efforts are underway to develop local supply chains that reduce dependency on external food imports. These measures are expected to strengthen the nation’s food security framework and align with the President’s vision for self-sufficiency.

Regional Focus and Community Engagement

The expansion of MBG kitchens has been prioritized in regions with the highest food insecurity rates. For example, the 33 kitchens in 3T areas are part of a targeted strategy to address the unique needs of these communities. Local farmers have been actively involved in the project, with many reporting increased income and improved livelihoods as a result of the police’s support.

Prabowo also highlighted the importance of community participation in the program’s success. “Without the cooperation of local leaders and farmers, these initiatives would not reach their full potential,” he said. The police have held regular meetings with regional authorities to discuss challenges and refine strategies. These dialogues have fostered a sense of shared responsibility and collective progress.

In conclusion, the Indonesian National Police’s multifaceted approach to food security combines direct infrastructure development with quality assurance, educational outreach, and regional engagement. By expanding MBG kitchens and supporting agricultural initiatives, the institution aims to ensure that all citizens have access to nutritious meals and contribute to the nation’s self-reliance in food production. The 2026 targets represent a significant milestone in this ongoing effort, with the potential to transform the landscape of food availability and nutritional standards across Indonesia.

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