Indonesia's Nutrition Agency Shuts 883 Free Meal Kitchens, Dismisses 261 Employees

JAKARTA, July 27 — Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has permanently suspended 883 kitchens operating under the government's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program after finding widespread violations of operational and hygiene standards, the agency's chief Sudaryono said on Monday.

The move is part of a broader overhaul of the flagship nutrition program launched less than a week after Sudaryono assumed office.

The suspended kitchens, known as Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG), were found to have breached requirements related to food hygiene, standard operating procedures, and wastewater treatment facilities.

"As of today, we have suspended 883 kitchens," Sudaryono told a press conference at the agency's headquarters in Jakarta.

The suspended facilities include 98 in Sumatra, 311 across Java and Madura, and 474 in Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Bali, Maluku, Nusa Tenggara, and Papua.

Sudaryono said the latest suspensions differ from previous enforcement measures because the affected kitchens will no longer receive government payments.

In a parallel internal crackdown, the agency also dismissed 261 employees, comprising 224 non-civil servants and 37 expert staff, over alleged disciplinary violations, involvement in online gambling, and suspected gratuity-related misconduct.

BGN is also investigating nine civil servants and government contract employees (PPPK) accused of serious violations that could result in dismissal. Another 39 employees will face administrative sanctions, including transfers, demotions, or formal warnings.

Sudaryono said the measures are intended to strengthen transparency, accountability, and integrity in the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals program. (Jamil)