Economists Value Free Nutrition Food Fees Of IDR 10,000 Per Portion Too Small

Illustration (Photo: Doc Antara)

JAKARTA - Indonesian Center of Reform on Economics (Core) Economist Yusuf Rendy Manilet assessed that the reduction in costs per portion of the Free Nutrition (MBG) program from IDR 15,000 to IDR 10,000 will require adjustments over time.

According to him, the evaluation carried out by the government in carrying out this program will affect the implementation and allocation of the program's budget.

"I think this free nutritious eating program will be adjusted as time goes on and the evaluation carried out by the government when this program will be implemented," he told VOI, Tuesday, December 3.

Yusuf revealed that the budget cuts and costs of MBG program recipients could be the result of a trial being carried out by the Government at several location points.

"My guess is from the trial, meeting the figure of Rp. 10,000 as a value intended for prospective recipients of this MBG program," he said.

In addition, Yusuf also highlighted that the figure of IDR 10,000 is relatively small, especially when compared to the big goal of the MBG program, which is to improve the quality of nutrition and nutrition for people in need.

"Especially if the Rp10,000 figure is a gross figure where this figure must be redistributed for the allocation of food needs provided, packaging and delivery services, to profits if you join Partners in where this program is run," said Yusuf.

According to him, if the Rp10,000 budget is only allocated for food, the figure can get smaller.

This can be a debate, especially in terms of how to provide a nutritious menu below this number, given the price differences between regions.

Therefore, Yusuf said that the government must provide further explanation of how the stated figure can still meet the nutritional and nutritional needs of its recipients.