Title: Fake MBG Program Dupes Women Entrepreneurs in Kediri
In the fervor surrounding President Prabowo Subianto’s proposed Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) program, opportunistic individuals have begun exploiting the initiative. In Kediri, scores of women entrepreneurs, primarily mothers running catering businesses, have fallen victim to a fake tender associated with the program.
The Scam Unfolds
Word of the scam spread rapidly among local catering entrepreneurs in Mojoroto, with over 70 women in the city and districts enticed by the false promise of MBG-related supplies. A self-proclaimed tender winner, allegedly linked to Kodim 0809 Kediri, approached these entrepreneurs, offering a tempting deal.
Under the guise of partnering to supply MBG packages, the scammer demanded a ‘collaboration fee‘ of at least IDR 1 million from each caterer. The scam was covertly promoted through word-of-mouth, targeting mostly stay-at-home mothers operative in the local food delivery scene.
The Allure and the Deception
Dwi Yuniarti, one such victim, recounted her experience, "Each caterer could agree to supply a different number of packages. For every 1,000 packages, an IDR 1 million fee was required." Dwi estimated that at least 43 women in Mojoroto alone had fallen for the scam, lured by the promise of significant profits within a short period.
The deceit included a promise of an upfront 40% payment for ingredients and a loan of IDR 20 million for purchasing equipment, further sweetening the deal.
The Aftermath
News of the scam has sent shockwaves through the local catering community. Many victims, having paid the fee, await updates on their ‘tender’ status, unaware they’ve been duped. Authorities have been notified, but no arrests have been made yet.
As the genuine MBG program remains inactive, authorities caution the public to be wary of any associated offers, especially those that require immediate payment or personal information.
