MBG Program Generates 94,000 Jobs: Economic Impact Analysis

The Free Nutritious Meals Program (MBG) has not only provided essential nutrition for students, pregnant women, and toddlers, but it has also made a significant economic impact. The program, implemented for seven months, has created job opportunities for 94,000 individuals through 2,391 Nutritional Fulfillment Service Units (SPPGs) nationwide. The number of workers has steadily increased with the expansion of SPPG units in various regions, starting from 7,000 in January to 94,000 by the end of July. Budget absorption has also risen, from IDR 1–2 trillion in the initial phase to IDR 5.1 trillion by the first semester of 2025. Fithra Faisal, Senior Advisor at the Presidential Communication Office (PCO), highlighted the positive impact of the MBG program on the economy, emphasizing the opening of new economic opportunities for local communities. The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) projects that the program will reach 20 million beneficiaries by August, with a total budget absorption of IDR 8 trillion. To enhance workforce inclusion, BGN plans to recruit SPPG kitchen staff from families in extreme poverty and lower-income groups, aiming for 30% of the staff to come from these vulnerable households. This strategy not only strengthens the program’s operational capacity but also empowers low-income communities and helps in reducing extreme poverty. This proactive approach is seen as a significant step towards economic growth and social development in the country.

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