Economic Impact: 94,000 Jobs Created by MBG Program

The Free Nutritious Meals Program (MBG) has not only provided nutritional benefits for students, pregnant women, and toddlers but has also made a significant economic impact. In just seven months, the program has created jobs for 94,000 individuals spread across 2,391 Nutritional Fulfillment Service Units (SPPGs) nationwide. The increase in SPPG units has led to a rise in employment figures, from 7,000 workers in January to 72,000 in June and then reaching 94,000 by July. Budget absorption has also increased, with the disbursement growing from IDR 1–2 trillion in the initial phase to IDR 5.1 trillion by the end of the first semester of 2025. Fithra Faisal, Senior Advisor at the Presidential Communication Office (PCO), stated that the MBG program has had a positive impact on job creation in the real economy, providing new economic opportunities for local communities. The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) expects the program to reach 20 million beneficiaries through 8,000 operational SPPG units by August, with total budget absorption estimated to reach IDR 8 trillion. To promote workforce inclusion, BGN plans to recruit staff for SPPG kitchens from families in extreme poverty and lower-income groups. This strategic initiative aims to reduce extreme poverty and empower vulnerable communities. Fithra believes that this policy not only enhances the program’s operational capacity but also uplifts low-income households through employment opportunities.

Source link