Bulog scales premium rice distribution for MBG program and market stability

Perum Bulog is intensifying rice distribution to stabilize national markets and support the Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) program. Bulog has already distributed 60,000 tons of premium rice to modern retail networks, aiming to reach a target of 300,000 tons by December 2026. To facilitate the MBG program, the government has decided to use Bulog’s premium rice, branded as ‘Beras Kita Premium’, rather than fortified rice. This premium supply is strictly commercial and does not utilize government subsidies.

National rice stocks are currently estimated at 4.8 million tons, which officials state is sufficient to meet demand through the end of the year. This stock will support various initiatives, including food assistance for approximately 33.2 million beneficiaries from October to December 2026, and the distribution of 1 million tons of rice for food price and supply stabilization (SPHP).

In Batang, Central Java, Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and Governor Ahmad Luthfi inspected patients who suffered suspected poisoning following the MBG program. The incident has prompted calls for stricter oversight regarding food sanitation and quality control within the program to prevent future occurrences.