DPD LIRA Kolaka Activates MBG Program Supervisory Task Force

KOLAKA, WN—The Regional Leadership Council (DPD) of the NGO LIRA Kolaka Regency, Southeast Sulawesi (Sultra) officially activated the Independent Monitoring Task Force to oversee the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG) in the region.

This step is a direct follow-up to the instructions of the President of the DPP NGO LIRA Indonesia, Jusuf Rizal, who instructed to strengthen supervision of national strategic programs simultaneously throughout Indonesia.

The Regent of the NGO LIRA Kolaka, Amir Kaharuddin, emphasized that the formation of this task force was not just an organizational formality, but rather an open warning to all parties involved.

Amir emphasized that the Free Nutritious Meal Program is a state agenda that concerns the future of the nation’s generations, so it should not be used as a playing field by any individual for personal gain.

He also issued a strong warning that those who try to play with the budget, reduce the quality of children’s food, or manipulate distribution will face LIRA’s strict supervision.

According to him, because this program uses public money, every rupiah spent must be accounted for in a transparent and accountable manner.

In its operations, the LIRA Task Force will focus on monitoring potential irregularities such as alleged budget overruns or mark-ups, non-compliance with food nutrition standards, and closed practices in appointing partners or third parties.

Apart from that, said Amir, indications of maladministration and abuse of authority by program organizers are also the main radar for monitoring in the field. However, Amir stated and emphasized his full support for government policies that side with the people, but this support does not mean condoning deviations. He stated that LIRA stands in line with the interests of the people and is committed to ensuring that the program which aims to improve the nutrition of school children is not tarnished by corrupt practices.

As a form of transparency, DPD NGO LIRA Kolaka is now opening a reporting channel for the public, teaching staff and parents of students who find any irregularities. LIRA guarantees the confidentiality of the identity of the reporter and states that it is ready to bring any findings that have strong indications of a violation of the law to law enforcement officials and state supervision institutions for firm follow-up.(**)

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