Govt prepares scheme for MSME involvement in free meal program

Makassar, S Sulawesi (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) is currently formulating a scheme to involve MSMEs in supplying food ingredients for the government's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program.

"Under the leadership of Mr. Sudaryono, the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is currently undergoing internal restructuring. At the same time, they will be working together with us at the Ministry of MSMEs," MSMEs Minister Maman Abdurrahman said in Makassar, South Sulawesi, on Sunday.

Alongside internal adjustments within the BGN, the ministry is also drafting the appropriate strategy for MSMEs to support the MBG program initiated by President Prabowo Subianto, ensuring the initiative runs smoothly and reaches its intended targets.

Maman noted that over 68,000 MSMEs are currently supplying MBG kitchens across Indonesia with food ingredients, including eggs and other produce.

He added that these supplies come from registered local producers in their respective regions.

"Out of our initial target of 68,000, we still see room to scale up so that as many MSMEs as possible can participate. We are currently preparing the formula for this," he emphasized.

Following President Prabowo's instructions, all cabinet members in his administration must pay close attention to the grassroots economy.

Data from the Ministry of Cooperatives and SMEs in 2024 shows that the number of MSMEs in Indonesia has reached 64.2 million units, accounting for roughly 99.99 percent of all enterprises in the country.

The MSME sector is projected to absorb around 123 million workers, or roughly 97 percent of Indonesia's workforce, making it widely regarded as a primary pillar in driving down unemployment.

Related news: Indonesian govt seeks more MSME suppliers for free meals program

Related news: Minister stresses free meal supply must use local MSMEs

Translator: M Darwin, Raka Adji
Editor: Primayanti
Copyright © ANTARA 2026