Free Nutritious Meals’ Budget Realization Reaches Rp36.6tn in Early 2026

Free Nutritious Meals’ Budget Realization Reaches Rp36.6tn in Early 2026

February 24, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom News

Indonesia’s free nutritious meal programme (MBG) has disbursed Rp36.6 trillion, representing 10.9 percent of its Rp335 trillion budget as of February 21, 2026. The programme, a flagship initiative of President Prabowo Subianto, is rapidly expanding its reach across the country.

programme Expansion and Beneficiary Growth

According to Deputy Minister of Finance Suahasil Nazara, the number of programme beneficiaries has risen to 60.24 million as of February 23, 2026. This represents significant growth from the 53.8 million recipients at the end of 2025 and a dramatic increase compared to the programme’s start in 2025, which served 549,000 people through 246 kitchens.

Did You Know? The MBG programme now utilizes over 23,678 Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPGs) nationwide.

Budget Concerns and Potential Reallocation

Despite the programme’s expansion, Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has indicated a potential review of the 2026 budget. The 2026 allocation has increased substantially from Rp71 trillion in the previous year. Minister Purbaya expressed concerns about fully utilizing the funds, stating that even doubling the previous year’s spending would not reach Rp300 trillion.

Minister Purbaya stated the goal is to ensure the programme runs optimally and efficiently. He suggested funds could be “channeled elsewhere if possible,” while still supporting President Subianto’s initiative.

Budget Realization in 2025

The Ministry of Finance reported that budget realization for the MBG programme on December 31, 2025, reached 72.5 percent of the target, with Rp51 trillion absorbed throughout the year. The current 2026 budget aims to support 82.9 million beneficiaries.

Expert Insight: The potential reallocation of funds suggests a strategic reassessment of programme efficiency, balancing ambitious expansion goals with fiscal responsibility. This could involve streamlining operations or prioritizing resources to maximize impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of the 2026 MBG budget had been realised as of February 21, 2026?

10.9 percent of the Rp335 trillion budget had been realised as of February 21, 2026, totaling Rp36.6 trillion.

How has the number of MBG beneficiaries changed since the end of 2025?

The number of beneficiaries increased from 53.8 million at the end of 2025 to 60.24 million as of February 23, 2026.

What was the MBG budget in 2025?

The MBG budget in 2025 was Rp71 trillion.

As Indonesia continues to address malnutrition through the MBG programme, how might ongoing budget reviews and efficiency measures shape the programme’s long-term impact?

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