The Attorney General’s Office of Indonesia is considering questioning National Nutrition Agency (BGN) chief Nanik Deyang as part of a widening corruption investigation into the government’s flagship free nutritious meals program. Syarief Sulaeman Nahdi, the agency’s director of corruption investigations, confirmed on Tuesday that Nanik may be summoned as a witness to provide information regarding procurement practices and the appointment of service units, though he emphasized that such a move does not imply criminal involvement.
The investigation has centered on the procurement of high-value equipment, including 21,801 electric motorcycles valued at Rp 1.03 trillion ($57.7 million), as well as 32,000 pairs of shoes and thousands of tablet computers and television sets.
Why the investigation is expanding
The potential questioning of Nanik follows the detention of three former BGN officials, including former chief Dadan Hindayana, and three business executives. According to legal counsel for former deputy Sony Sanjaya, allegations have been raised that Nanik played a significant role in procurement activities that are currently under scrutiny for potential favoritism and bribery.
.jpg/1280px-Nanik_S._Deyang%2C_Wakil_Ketua_Badan_Gizi_Nasional_(2025).jpg "Why the investigation is expanding")
Nanik, who was appointed by President Prabowo Subianto earlier this month to replace Dadan, has denied any personal involvement in the alleged corruption. She maintains that the procurement contracts in question were finalized before she assumed her current leadership position at the agency.
This investigation represents a significant challenge for the administration’s signature multibillion-dollar initiative. By placing 17,600 electric motorcycles under official supervision rather than seizing them as evidence, the Attorney General’s Office is attempting to balance the need for judicial oversight with the state’s interest in preserving the economic value and utility of public assets.
What comes next for the BGN
Prosecutors have not set a specific date for any potential summons of Nanik, stating that future actions depend on the ongoing collection of evidence and the evolving needs of the investigation. The Attorney General’s Office continues to coordinate with the BGN regarding the status of the 17,600 electric motorcycles currently held in storage.
As the case proceeds, investigators will continue to examine the appointment process for Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG). The outcome of these inquiries may determine the future operational direction of the program intended to provide nutritional support to schoolchildren and other vulnerable groups across the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nanik Deyang a suspect in the corruption case?
No. The Attorney General’s Office has stated that she may be questioned as a witness, and they emphasized that such questioning should not be interpreted as evidence of criminal involvement.
Why have the electric motorcycles not been seized?
Prosecutors chose not to seize the 17,600 motorcycles because they were concerned that the vehicles’ economic value and practical usefulness would decline if they were impounded for an extended period.
Who are the current suspects in the investigation?
Authorities have named six suspects: former BGN chief Dadan Hindayana, former deputies Sony Sanjaya and Lodewyk Pusung, and business executives Asep Yusuf Somantri, Andri Mulyono, and Glory Harimas Sihombing.
How will the government ensure the integrity of the free meals program moving forward?