MPR Appreciates and Supports Evaluation of MBG Program by Prabowo Subianto

Deputy Chairman of the MPR RI Eddy Soeparno while reviewing the MBG program. ANTARA/HO-MPR

JAKARTA - Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian Parliament (MPR) Eddy Soeparno appreciates President Prabowo Subianto's move to prioritize the distribution of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program so that it is more targeted to children who really need it.

According to Eddy, President Prabowo's policy to evaluate the MBG program is also appropriate because in the midst of tight fiscal space, program efficiency is a realistic decision.

"Since the beginning of his administration, the President has always worked based on the principle of no one is left behind, especially for people who are economically vulnerable and most in need," said Eddy in Jakarta, Saturday, April 18, quoted from ANTARA.

In addition, he said President Prabowo's move to prioritize MBG for children in need showed the government's commitment to the principle of social justice.

That way, public policies are directed to reach the most vulnerable groups of people first.

"This decision reflects the government's sensitivity to the actual conditions on the ground. Priority to areas in need is a concrete form of a policy based on needs in areas that are prone to malnutrition and poverty," he said.

Eddy added that this needs-based approach is important to ensure the effectiveness of the MBG program, especially in efforts to reduce stunting rates, improve children's nutritional quality, and support the development of Indonesia's human resources in the future.

"We hope that the provision of MBG in the future is based on the accuracy of data so that those who are entitled to receive MBG always receive the nutritional intake provided by the state," he said.

He also emphasized that the implementation of this program must be accompanied by strict supervision, given the many complaints about the quality and portion of MBG food that does not meet the criteria as determined by the BGN.

"In various visits to the region, we received input about SPPGs who have not been entrusted to carry out their functions by reducing the volume or quality of food that is already the right of the pre-recipient," he said.

Eddy also reminded all SPPG managers to work diligently and honestly, and never take "shortcuts" to make big profits.

Taking the rights of others, added Eddy, is not only a wrong behavior, but also shows the low morality of the perpetrator.

"Therefore, I appeal to all SPPG managers to provide the best quality and food services for our children," he said.