Indonesia suspends free school meals program during school holidays

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) issued Circular No. 12/2026 to halt the Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) free school‑meal programme from 22 June to 13 July 2026, aiming to standardise operations and improve budget efficiency. Units of the Service Units for Nutrition Fulfilment (SPPG) that do not operate during the break will not receive the daily incentive of Rp 6 million, a move BGN says will save about Rp 3 trillion.

In Batam, 53 SPPG kitchens had stopped service after delayed fund disbursement but resumed on 15 June once the budget was topped up. The local coordinator noted the MBG service will follow the school‑holiday schedule.

The Indonesian Food‑Industry Association (GAPEMBI) clarified it does not oppose the holiday suspension but criticised the decision‑making process, calling it unilateral and potentially conflicting with existing regulations. "We need to clarify to avoid public misunderstanding," said GAPEMBI chair Alven Stony, adding that any operational changes should involve consultation with field partners.