Darmizal: MBG is a strategic investment of the state, not a burden on the budget

JAKARTA - The President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, ensures that the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program continues to run and is not affected by efficiency in the midst of tension and political turmoil in the world.

The affirmation was conveyed by Prabowo when he met a number of senior figures and journalists at his residence in Hambalang, Bogor, West Java, Tuesday, March 24.

"I will survive (continue MBG) as long as possible. Rather than money being corrupted, it is better that my people can eat," said Prabowo.

Responding to the President's decision, the Chairman of ReJO for Prabowo Gibran Ir. HM. Darmizal MS said, MBG is one of the tangible manifestations of the current government policy.

"In the midst of budget efficiency pressures, President Prabowo explicitly emphasized that MBG is not included in the savings scheme, it will even be strengthened and expanded its implementation. This decision is not just a populist policy, but a long-term strategy based on human development," Darmizal said in his statement, Wednesday, March 25.

According to Darmizal, MBG is positioned as a fundamental instrument to ensure the nutritional fulfillment of future generations, reduce social gaps, strengthen the quality of Indonesian human resources, and become a social cushion amid global economic pressures.

"In other words, MBG is a strategic investment of the state, not a burden on the budget," he said.

Darmizal invited all components of the nation and the community to play an active role in making this program a success. Public participation is the key to this program running transparently.

"As part of the elements of civil society, I, Darmizal, Chairman of ReJO for PraGib, invite all components of the nation to play an active role in making this program successful. Public participation is the key, both through massive and educational socialization, transparent and accountable distribution supervision, voluntary involvement in ensuring the quality of services according to the established standards," he said.

Darmizal explained that all parties must ensure that every benefit from this program is truly felt by the eligible people, is targeted, and is sustainable.

"In facing an uncertain world, Indonesia must not only survive but must move forward with strategies that are in the people's favor. MBG that is efficient and capable is proof that the state is present, working, and siding. Because national resilience begins with a full stomach, adequate nutrition, and maintained hope," said Darmizal.