PRIME NEWS POST

The INDONESIAN (Mamuju)– Allegations of the buying and selling of locations for the Free Nutritious Kitchen (MBG) program have resurfaced in West Sulawesi. An individual identified as the head of a political party wing is suspected of involvement in the practice, promising easier approval for kitchen locations while claiming to have connections and the ability to lobby authorities at the central level.

Wahyullah Arif, Secretary of LKPPH DPN PERMAHI, stated that his organization has received multiple complaints from prospective partners across several areas in West Sulawesi, who reported being asked to pay sums of money in exchange for guaranteed approval of their proposed kitchen sites.

“The scheme described to us involves claims of having direct access to central authorities, with promises that a kitchen location will be approved if the prospective partner pays a certain amount. There are also requests for fees under the pretext of covering travel and accommodation costs for trips to Jakarta. However, once the money is handed over, the promises are not fulfilled, and various excuses are given,” Wahyullah said on Sunday, June 28, 2026.

According to him, the suspect is also said to frequently invoke the names of central government officials and influential figures to convince prospective partners. The alleged practice reportedly took place from late 2025 through early 2026, coinciding with the verification process for MBG locations in West Sulawesi.

Wahyullah emphasized that if the allegations are proven true, such actions are deeply concerning, as they risk undermining the core objective of the program: improving public nutrition.

“Similar practices could occur in other regions, but this case in West Sulawesi demands serious attention. Our province still faces high rates of stunting, so it is very regrettable if any party exploits this strategic program for personal gain. This nutritious food initiative is specifically designed to help reduce stunting rates,” he explained.

LKPPH DPN PERMAHI confirmed it has gathered supporting materials, including voice recordings, witness statements, and other documents, which will undergo further verification before an official report is filed.

“We have obtained preliminary evidence and do not rule out presenting additional proof once the formal complaint is submitted to law enforcement. We are also examining the possibility of indirect transaction patterns,” he stated firmly.

Furthermore, LKPPH DPN PERMAHI announced it will prepare an official report to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and the Indonesian National Police Headquarters once all documentation and evidence are complete. The group has also called for a review and verification of the process used to assign MBG locations in West Sulawesi, to ensure the program operates in line with its intended goals.

“Our secretariat is based in Central Jakarta, which facilitates coordination and submission of reports to national authorities. We are also considering sending copies of the findings to the relevant political party should any legally accountable links be established,” he added.

As of press time, the identity of the alleged perpetrator has not been officially disclosed. Relevant parties have not yet issued a statement, and further details await the reporting and verification process conducted by authorized agencies.