The Free Nutritious Meal (Makan Bergizi Gratis/MBG) program has emerged as a significant catalyst for Indonesia’s economic expansion, contributing to the country’s 5.61% year-on-year (yoy) economic growth in the first quarter of 2026. According to Statistics Indonesia (BPS), the program’s impact is particularly visible within the Gross Fixed Capital Formation (PMTB) component.
BPS Head Amalia Adininggar Widyasanti explained that the rapid expansion of Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) has stimulated the economy through substantial physical construction activities. During a press conference on Tuesday (May 5), Amalia noted that the massive infrastructure development required for these units—including specialized kitchens and supporting facilities—has been a major driver for PMTB growth.
These investments are classified as capital expenditure, encompassing both physical building construction and the procurement of essential culinary equipment. As a key economic pillar, PMTB stands as the second-largest contributor to GDP growth, trailing only household consumption. It recorded a 5.96% growth rate during this period, bolstered by both government spending on national priority programs and increased private investment. Currently, the PMTB component accounts for 28.29% of Indonesia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The ripple effect of these initiatives extends to the construction sector. The development of SPPG infrastructure and the Kopdes Merah Putih (Village Cooperatives) helped drive the construction industry to a 5.49% growth rate, contributing 0.53 percentage points to the overall economic expansion in the first quarter of 2026.
While the year-on-year figures signal strong momentum for the national economy, BPS also reported that, on a quarter-to-quarter (qtq) basis, the economy experienced a slight contraction of 0.77% compared to the fourth quarter of 2025.
Summary
The Free Nutritious Meal program has become a key driver of Indonesia’s 5.61% year-on-year economic growth in the first quarter of 2026. This expansion is largely attributed to the development of Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG), which generated significant activity in the construction sector and boosted Gross Fixed Capital Formation (PMTB). As the second-largest contributor to GDP, PMTB grew by 5.96%, supported by substantial government investment in specialized infrastructure and culinary facilities.
The construction industry also benefited from these initiatives, recording a 5.49% growth rate and contributing significantly to the national economic performance. While these year-on-year figures reflect strong momentum, BPS noted a slight quarter-to-quarter contraction of 0.77% compared to the final quarter of 2025. Overall, the integration of public service infrastructure and private investment continues to serve as a vital pillar for Indonesia’s economic stability.
