RADAR TULUNGAGUNG – The controversy surrounding Indonesia’s MBG free meal program continues to intensify after a series of viral videos showed parents and students complaining about poor food quality, tiny portions, and alleged budget irregularities in several regions.

The MBG free meal program, which was introduced as part of President Prabowo Subianto’s flagship initiatives, initially gained public support because it promised nutritious meals for school children. However, criticism has grown after many recipients shared their experiences online, questioning whether the allocated budget truly reaches students.

Several parents openly criticized the condition of the meals distributed to schools. In one viral clip, a parent claimed the food package received by children was worth far below the official allocation of Rp15,000 per student per day.

According to the parent, the package only contained simple bread, sour apples, small portions of tempeh, eggs, and milk. After calculating the estimated prices item by item, the parent argued the total value of the food was only around Rp6,000 to Rp10,000.

The complaint quickly triggered heated discussions on social media, with many netizens accusing local suppliers and organizers of cutting costs excessively.

Parents Question MBG Food Quality

Some videos showed students receiving food packages intended to last several days during school holidays. Parents argued the portions were unrealistic and lacked proper nutrition.

One mother from South Tangerang, commonly known as Tangsel, questioned why weekly meal packages only included a few bananas, eggs, bread, and fruit.

She stressed that her criticism did not come from a lack of gratitude, but from concerns over the quality and fairness of the program.

Another parent stated that children deserved better meals because the government had already prepared a substantial budget for the initiative. The parent suspected that too many operational costs and distribution expenses reduced the actual food value received by students.

The viral complaints also highlighted concerns about stale food, bland vegetables, and limited protein portions.

In one clip, a recipient described the food as “busuk” or spoiled, while another said the vegetables tasted “anyep,” meaning bland and tasteless.

Public Highlights Alleged Budget Cuts

The MBG free meal program also became a topic of debate after online creators discussed alleged inefficiencies in the distribution system.

One speaker compared the salaries of MBG delivery drivers with the income earned by honorary teachers. According to the statement, some delivery drivers reportedly earn around Rp3 million per month, while many teachers with university degrees still receive very low salaries.

The comparison fueled public frustration, especially among education observers who believe teacher welfare should remain a top priority.

Critics argued that the government should reevaluate the system to ensure more funds are spent directly on nutritious meals instead of administrative and transportation costs.

Some parents proposed that the government distribute food allowances directly to families rather than relying on multiple intermediaries.

They claimed this approach could reduce the risk of corruption and improve transparency in the use of public funds.

MBG Program Still Receives Support

Despite the criticism, not all reactions toward the MBG free meal program have been negative.

Some communities and parents still appreciate the government’s effort to provide free food assistance for children, especially for families struggling with rising living costs.

Supporters believe the program has strong potential if implemented properly and monitored more strictly.

Several online commentators also reminded the public that not every MBG kitchen or supplier provides poor-quality meals. They argued that some schools reportedly received better food portions and more balanced nutrition.

However, the repeated viral complaints have increased pressure on local governments and MBG organizers to improve standards immediately.

Parents urged authorities to conduct stricter inspections of suppliers and ensure food quality matches the allocated budget.

Growing Calls for Evaluation

As more videos continue circulating online, calls for a nationwide evaluation of the MBG free meal program are becoming louder.

Many citizens now expect the government to improve transparency, strengthen supervision, and guarantee that children receive nutritious meals as promised.

The controversy has also highlighted broader concerns about accountability in public welfare programs.

For now, the MBG program remains one of the most discussed national policies on Indonesian social media, with debates continuing over whether the initiative can truly deliver its original mission of supporting children’s nutrition and education.