BGN leadership shakeup aimed at boosting free meal program

 State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi stressed that the change in the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) leadership will not disrupt the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program, noting it will instead strengthen services provided under the initiative.

"The government once again emphasizes that this leadership change will not interfere with our commitment to running the MBG program, which is implemented by the BGN," he told reporters at the Presidential Palace complex in Jakarta on Tuesday.

Hadi expressed hope that the transition would mark a strong new chapter in enhancing the program's services to ensure it runs as effectively as possible.

According to him, President Prabowo Subianto decided to replace the head of the BGN following nearly 1.5 years of monitoring and evaluating the agency's performance.

The BGN plays a strategic role in supporting the government's agenda to improve public nutrition. Therefore, it requires robust governance, effective cross-sector coordination, and a leadership capable of ensuring the program is executed accurately, on time, and in accordance with accountability principles.

He noted that the evaluation process is conducted continuously, taking into account feedback from various parties, including the beneficiaries.

In his decision, President Prabowo dismissed Dadan Hindayana from his position as head of the BGN, along with Lodewyk Pusung and Sony Sanjaya as deputy heads of the agency.

The government expressed its appreciation for their hard work and dedication in building the foundation and developing the BGN.

Subsequently, the president appointed Nanik S. Deyang as the new head of the BGN.

The president also appointed Agustina Arumsari and Major General Trenggono as the agency's new deputy heads.

Minister Hadi expressed hope that the new leadership would immediately initiate internal consolidation, strengthen coordination across ministries and agencies, and enhance collaboration with regional governments.

"We all hope that the new leadership can speed up the implementation of priority programs, improve performance, enhance organizational governance, and provide concrete benefits to the community," he remarked.

Targeting 82.9 million beneficiaries nationwide, the MBG program was launched in early 2025 to improve the nutritional status of children under five, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and schoolchildren up to the high school level.