Jakarta – Chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin), Anindya Novyan Bakrie, received an audience with the Indonesian Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Kitchen Partners Association (GAMDI) at Menara Kadin Indonesia, South Jakarta, on Wednesday (April 29, 2026).

During the meeting, Anin, as he is commonly known, emphasized that GAMDI’s presence reflects a strong spirit of cross-sector collaboration among business actors to support the government-initiated MBG program.

“This is the association of MBG kitchen partners in Indonesia. From the name alone, it is clear that the goal is not to move forward individually, but to progress together,” said Anin.

He noted that the MBG program is a strategic initiative that not only contributes to improving the quality of future generations, but also has the potential to strengthen food security and stimulate regional economies. Kadin fully supports the program’s implementation, as it can drive economic activity down to the regency and municipal levels, rather than being concentrated in specific areas.

“What encourages us is that this (MBG) program does not displace local entrepreneurs, but instead drives economic activity in the regions,” Anin added.

Anin explained that GAMDI consists of various business players with a comprehensive supply chain, ranging from food suppliers such as vegetables and protein sources, to equipment providers, as well as experts in property, certification, and legal services. This diversity is considered essential to ensure effective and targeted program implementation, including in budget management.

“This is where collaboration becomes key for Indonesia Incorporated. Our focus is on developing regional economies and MSMEs. Technology can come from anywhere, partners can come from anywhere, but the focus remains on strengthening local economies as a foundation for a resilient national economy,” he said.

Meanwhile, GAMDI Chairman Riyad stated that the organization serves as an extension of Kadin’s priority programs in supporting the government.

“It is important to underline that GAMDI was established as part of Kadin’s key initiative to prioritize and support government programs,” Riyad explained.

Responding to concerns that the program might be perceived merely as a “business opportunity,” Riyad clarified the role of partnerships within the MBG ecosystem. According to him, GAMDI serves as a platform to accommodate the aspirations of various stakeholders.

“The function of GAMDI is to gather and channel stakeholder aspirations. Stakeholders within the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) ecosystem are not limited to kitchens alone, but cover many aspects, including economic actors. These actors especially those involved in kitchen operations also receive incentives,” Riyad concluded.