Indonesia's Badan Gizi Nasional faces protest over free meal program

On June 10, 2026, dozens of activists from the MBG Watch coalition staged a demonstration outside the National Nutrition Agency (Badan Gizi Nasional, BGN) in central Jakarta. They demanded a moratorium on the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program and a pause of at least 30 days, calling for a review of the program’s management, procurement processes, and alleged conflicts of interest. Representative Agus Sarwono said the current moratorium on construction of MBG kitchen units is insufficient because the program continues; he highlighted risks of corruption, lack of transparency in partner selection, and political affiliations of partner organisations. Protestors also distributed food to passers‑by, displayed symbolic seals, and used cooking equipment to convey their grievances. While acknowledging the program benefits many needy children, the group argues the aid is mis‑targeted and calls for stricter oversight before the program resumes.