PDIP's Hasto Criticizes MBG Program Control Failure Due to Rent-Seekers
PDIP Secretary General Hasto Kristiyanto highlighted the recurring food poisoning cases in the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program in North Sumatra, accusing rent-seekers of compromising quality.
Secretary General of the DPP PDIP, Hasto Kristiyanto, delivered sharp criticism regarding the recurring cases of food poisoning that affected dozens of students due to the Nutritious Meal Program (MBG) in North Sumatra. This criticism was conveyed by Hasto after attending the commemoration ceremony for the 81st Anniversary of the Indonesian Republic's Independence at the At-Taufiq Mosque courtyard, PDIP Party School, Lenteng Agung, South Jakarta, Monday, August 17, 2026.
Hasto assessed that these recurring incidents are a strong indication that the government's supervision system is not functioning properly. He also accused the involvement of "rent-seeking" parties who reduce food quality to gain financial profit.
"This is an issue that has occurred from the beginning. When the issue repeats itself, it means the system is not working. Control is not working, and then it also shows why the quality is not good? Because there are rent-seekers there," said Hasto.
Demand for Total Revision of the MBG Program
Seeing that students have fallen victim, Hasto urged the government to immediately conduct a total revision and comprehensive evaluation of the governance and distribution mechanisms of the MBG program.
"This is what must be done with a total revision. A comprehensive evaluation must be carried out, too many victims have occurred," he continued.
Furthermore, Hasto explained that PDIP actually has a proven track record and concept for handling public nutrition in the regions. He cited the success of public nutrition fulfillment policies that were previously implemented by Tri Rismaharini when she served as Mayor of Surabaya, Idham Samawi when he was Regent of Bantul, and Abdullah Azwar Anas in Banyuwangi.
PDIP's Participatory Concept for Public Nutrition
According to Hasto, the key to the success of nutrition fulfillment programs lies in a participatory approach that involves local residents, not just a centralized top-down project.
"PDI Perjuangan has a concept on how to assist the nutritional needs of the people. Participatory steps involve the people. So, do not consider the nutritious meal program as a top-down one," explained Hasto.
He suggested that the central government should act as a guarantor and supervisor of quality (quality assurance and quality control). Meanwhile, the execution of food provision should be left to the active participation of the community and local MSMEs to ensure the freshness and quality of the food.
