Top News: Corruption in Free Nutritious Meal Program and Trisakti Student Demonstrations
Today's briefing highlights the continuation of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program amidst corruption issues, as well as student demonstrations in front of the DPR building. Additionally, there are legal developments regarding the arrest of public figures in the case of alleged fake diplomas of former President Jokowi. We also summarize the latest medical findings regarding the possibility of a new type of diabetes.
President Prabowo Subianto has decided to maintain the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program despite the National Nutrition Agency (BGN)—the institution responsible for the program—currently being embroiled in a corruption case involving its top officials. As a follow-up step, BGN has revised several policies and implemented a temporary suspension of certain parts of the program for evaluation. The MBG program is a national initiative aimed at improving the nutritional quality of the public, but it now faces strict oversight due to internal integrity issues within the agency.
In Jakarta, hundreds of students from various universities, including Trisakti University, held a demonstration in front of the DPR building on Friday (19/06). The crowd demanded what they called 'Tritura' or the Three Demands of the People. This action is a form of student protest against the current political and economic situation, which triggered tight security around the parliament area to anticipate security disturbances.
The Jakarta Metropolitan Regional Police (Polda Metro Jaya) have arrested Roy Suryo and Doctor Tifa in connection with the alleged spread of false information regarding former President Joko Widodo's fake diploma. Both are among eight individuals who have been named suspects by the police. This case stems from a long-standing debate on social media regarding the authenticity of the former president's educational documents, which has now led to criminal legal proceedings.
In the field of health, scientists are investigating the emergence of type 5 diabetes. Unlike previous types, type 5 diabetes is believed to be closely related to the long-term effects of malnutrition or severe undernutrition experienced by an individual, especially during childhood. This research is expected to provide a new understanding of how to treat diabetes patients with a history of poor nutrition.
Visit the News section in our app for in-depth reports and other stories. Check out information regarding the new knockout stage rules for the 2026 World Cup, medical reasons why squatting is good for health, and a unique trend among women in China who now prefer buying men's clothing for comfort reasons.