Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program may require approximately Rp174 trillion (US$10.7 billion) in 2027, according to DPR Budget Committee Chairman Said Abdullah. This estimate is significantly lower than the Rp270.2 trillion (US$16.6 billion) indicative budget previously proposed by the National Nutrition Agency.
Why is the MBG budget estimate lower?
Said Abdullah told reporters at the DPR complex in Jakarta on Monday, July 6, that the lower estimate is based on projected Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) and beneficiary counts. While 27,000 units were originally proposed, Said estimates that only 21,000 will be needed to serve 84 million students.
He also noted that nutrition programs for pregnant women and stunting prevention are funded via the health budget rather than the education budget. This distinction reduces the total amount required specifically for the MBG program itself.
Did You Know? The current estimate suggests that only 21,000 Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) will be required, a reduction from the 27,000 units initially proposed.
How does the new estimate compare to previous proposals?
The new figure contrasts with earlier statements from National Nutrition Agency (BGN) Deputy Head Agustina Arumsari. Arumsari previously proposed an indicative 2027 budget of Rp270.2 trillion to serve approximately 81.5 million beneficiaries.
Arumsari emphasized that these figures remain under discussion with the Finance Ministry and the National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas). She noted that beneficiary targets and budget requirements are still being refined through ongoing efficiency measures.
Expert Insight: The reduction in the projected budget is partly because nutrition programs for pregnant women and stunting prevention are funded under the health budget rather than the education budget, which reduces the amount required for the MBG program itself.
What happens next for the 2027 budget?
The Rp174 trillion figure remains a preliminary estimate. The government and parliament haven’t started formal discussions regarding the 2027 State Budget (APBN) yet.
The final allocation will be decided during upcoming budget deliberations. These discussions are expected to take place before the APBN’s anticipated approval in September.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the estimated cost for the 2027 MBG program?
DPR Budget Committee Chairman Said Abdullah estimates the program will require around Rp174 trillion (US$10.7 billion).
Why is the new estimate lower than the previous budget proposal?
The lower estimate is based on a projected need for 21,000 service units rather than 27,000, and the fact that stunting and maternal nutrition are funded through the health budget.
When will the 2027 State Budget be finalized?
The final allocation will be decided during budget deliberations ahead of the expected approval in September.
How should the government balance budget efficiency with nutritional standards?
