Jakarta (10 January 2025) - Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf shared his insights and experiences on the challenges and innovations in the field of social welfare, including Ministry of Social Affairs’ (MoSA) contribution to the grand vision of Golden Indonesia 2045. He made this during a discussion in MoSA Office Jakarta on Friday (10/1/2025).

One of the flagship programs discussed was Free Nutritious Meal  Program (MBG), which, according to Gus Ipul, has far-reaching impacts - not only in fulfilling the community’s nutritional needs but also in empowering the local economy.

“This program is designed to meet people’s nutritional needs, particularly children, while also generating significant ripple effects. To ensure food security, this program absorbs workforce, empowers local MSMEs, and drives economic growth at the local level,” said Saifullah Yusuf, popularly known as Gus Ipul.

Gus Ipul underscored the importance of meticulous planning and comprehensive evaluation in the implementation of the MBG program. National Nutrition Agency ensures that every stage is designed measurably and undergoes simulation before execution.

“I witnessed firsthand how this plan was meticulously crafted. In the future, there will certainly be evaluations to perfect the program’s implementation,” he added. 

Gus Ipul further explained that MoSA is committed to recommending low-income families to be employed in MBG’s kitchens. Additionally, MSME products from beneficiaries will also be integrated into the program.

“Approximately 80% of the budget is allocated for the procurement of raw materials from MSMEs, making this program highly strategic as it fosters optimism, particularly in regions where MBG programs are implemented,” he explained.

As part of MoSA social welfare initiatives, other meal programs, such as the Nutritious Meal Program for Neglected Elderly and Persons with Disabilities, continue to operate. These programs are implemented through more than 2,000 community groups that provide meals twice a day.

“Although the scale is smaller, this program remains close to people on the ground, while also strengthening the local economy, creating more job opportunities, and fostering social solidarity,” said Gus Ipul.