Indonesia‘s Commission IX of the House of Representatives (DPR) will closely oversee the allocation of the Rp244 trillion (approximately US$15.1 billion) health budget in the 2026 State Budget Bill (RAPBN) to ensure its effective use [[2]]. Deputy Chairman Charles Honoris emphasized the need for optimal budget utilization to benefit the public and ensure equitable health services nationwide [[2]].
President Prabowo Subianto announced the health and employment budget allocations on August 15 [[2]]. Honoris stressed the importance of fully utilizing the funds to enhance healthcare services and increase the number of healthcare professionals, including general practitioners and specialists [[2]].
Commission IX will also monitor the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program, managed by the national Nutrition Agency (BGN) [[2]]. As of August 2025, only 14 percent of the current year’s target had been achieved [[2]]. The MBG budget is projected to increase to Rp335 trillion in 2026 [[2]]. Concerns have been raised regarding recent mass food poisoning cases in several regions, prompting a call for improved food quality control by the BGN [[2]].
Moreover, the commission will oversee employment programs, aiming to reduce the unemployment rate to 4.76 percent and create 3.6 million new jobs by 2025 [[2]].Honoris urged the government to implement stronger economic stimulus and concrete job creation initiatives [[2]]. Commission IX will maintain a balanced approach,supporting effective programs while critically evaluating those that might potentially be detrimental to the public [[2]].
