Indonesia's BGN electric‑motorcycle procurement scandal tied to MBG program

The Ministry of Finance disclosed that the Badan Gizi Nasional (BGN) proceeded with a purchase of 21,801 electric motorcycles worth around Rp1 trillion for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program in March 2026, even after the procurement had been rejected. The motorcycles sit idle in a warehouse in Sentul, Bogor, and the deal is under investigation for alleged mark‑up and corruption. Minister of Finance Purbaya said, “Kami akan menindak pihak‑pihak yang terlibat,” and announced an internal evaluation.

The Attorney General’s Office sealed roughly 17,600 of the assembled motorcycles to monitor their movement, stating, “Boleh, karena tidak kami sita,” and clarified that the vehicles would not be confiscated as evidence. The seal allows the bikes to be distributed, with BGN responsible for their eventual use.

Parliamentarians have discussed donating the unused motorcycles to contract teachers. Deputy Chairman of Commission X Lalu Hadrian warned, “Jangan sampai menjadi beban baru bagi guru‑guru honorer kita,” urging legal and administrative checks before any hand‑over. Deputy Chairman of Commission IX Yahya Zaini supported the idea, noting it could prevent the assets from remaining idle.

The controversy highlights concerns over public‑fund management, procurement transparency, and the potential repurposing of government‑owned assets for educational support.