JAKARTA - A witness presented by the government in the trial of the material test of Law Number 17 of 2025 concerning the 2026 Budget Year State Budget at the Constitutional Court (MK) said that the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) Program increased the concentration, learning spirit, and student attendance at school.
"The MBG program provides real benefits for our students. First, this MBG program increases the concentration and learning spirit of children," said the Head of the Kartika Nawa Kindergarten, Malang, East Java, Nur Azizah, in the MK Plenary Session, reported by ANTARA, Wednesday, July 1.
According to Nur Azizah, before the MBG program was implemented, some students were reluctant to come to school. However, after the program was implemented, the student attendance rate increased.
"At first, the children were lazy to go to school, now they are diligent," he said.
He explained that the MBG program also increased students' enthusiasm in attending teaching and learning activities because many children previously came to school without breakfast or did not bring provisions from home.
"This program also creates a more conducive learning environment because the basic needs of learners are more fulfilled," he said.
In addition, the varied MBG menu, such as milk and fruit, makes students more enthusiastic about learning.
Nur Azizah added that the implementation of MBG at TK Kartika Nawa since December 2025 has not impacted the welfare of educators and school operations.
According to him, the salary of teachers is still sourced from education dues that have been planned in the school budget and continues to be adjusted every year.
He also ensured that the distribution of MBG did not interfere with the learning process because it had been regulated through the picket teacher system.
"Distribution is carried out without disturbing learning and teaching activities still go well," he said.
In addition, the maintenance and renovation of school facilities and infrastructure continues to run according to the needs and planning that has been established.
Nur Azizah emphasized that all of her testimony at the trial was based on her experience and observations as a school principal.
"I convey it with full awareness without any pressure or coercion from any party," he said.
Nur Azizah is one of three witnesses presented by the government in the trial of the material of the 2026 State Budget Law regarding cases Number 40/PUU-XXIV/2026, Number 52/PUU-XXIV/2026, and Number 55/PUU-XXIV/2026 which questioned the placement of the MBG program in the education budget.
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