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The Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) program faces mounting pressure as critics and student protesters demand a suspension of the initiative due to concerns over transparency and governance. Busyro Muqoddas, Chairman of the PP Muhammadiyah for Law, Human Rights, and Public Policy, stated on Tuesday (16/6/2026) that the program lacks transparency in its planning processes. Despite these calls for a halt, the government has formally confirmed the program will continue.
Transparency Concerns and Legal Challenges
Busyro Muqoddas, a former Chairman of the Judicial Commission, argued that the government’s attempts to improve the MBG program have failed to address fundamental issues. According to Muqoddas, the planning phase of the program has not been conducted openly, leading to concerns that the negative consequences of the project currently outweigh its benefits.
The ongoing judicial review of the MBG program within the 2026 State Budget Law (UU APBN) at the Constitutional Court (MK) is viewed by critics as a potential avenue for change. Muqoddas suggested that the court could provide a “moral constitutional consideration” to temporarily halt the program for a comprehensive evaluation.
Did You Know?
Public pushback against the MBG program has manifested through organized street demonstrations, including protests held on Friday (12/6/2026) and Monday (15/6/2026) by student groups demanding a complete overhaul of the program’s management.
Government Stance on Program Continuity
The government remains committed to the MBG program despite external criticism. Muhammad Qodari, Head of the Government Communication Agency (Bakom) RI, stated that the administration has no intention of stopping the initiative. This response follows demands from various groups, including students and members of the PP Muhammadiyah, who have called for a total evaluation of the program’s governance.
Expert Insight:
The tension between governmental implementation and civil society oversight highlights a significant divide regarding administrative transparency. While the government maintains that the program is essential, the reliance on constitutional review suggests that the future of the MBG may hinge on legal interpretations of accountability rather than policy adjustments alone.
Potential Next Steps for the MBG Program
The immediate future of the MBG program depends largely on the ongoing proceedings at the Constitutional Court. If the court decides to act on the petition for a temporary stay, the government would be forced to pause operations for an evaluation. Conversely, if the court upholds the current legal framework, the government is expected to proceed with its existing plan, as indicated by the firm stance taken by Bakom RI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do critics want the MBG program stopped?
Critics, including Busyro Muqoddas, argue that the program lacks transparency in its planning and that its negative impacts currently outweigh its benefits.
What is the role of the Constitutional Court in this issue?
The Constitutional Court is currently reviewing the MBG program under the 2026 State Budget Law. Some stakeholders hope the court will order a temporary suspension for evaluation.
Has the government agreed to halt the program?
No. Muhammad Qodari, Head of Bakom RI, explicitly stated that the government will not stop the MBG program.
Given the conflicting views between government officials and advocacy groups, how should the administration best address public demands for greater transparency in the MBG planning process?
