Jakarta, ThedailyID — A family in Wonosobo, Central Java, has named their newborn Muhammad Bintang Gemilang Subianto, intentionally preserving the initials MBG as a tribute to Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals (Makan Bergizi Gratis) program launched by President Prabowo Subianto.
The baby’s father, Zuharni, said he initially wanted to name his son Muhammad MBG Subianto. However, Indonesia’s civil registration rules do not allow abbreviations in official names, prompting the family to choose Muhammad Bintang Gemilang instead.
Now 23 days old, the baby is affectionately called MBG by family members and neighbors.
Zuharni said the name reflects his gratitude for the government’s nutrition program. For nearly a year, he has worked as a volunteer at the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) Sapuran Jolontoro.
“I chose the name because I truly like the work and feel grateful. It is my way of saying thank you,” Zuharni said in a statement released by Indonesia’s Government Communications Agency (Bakom) on Friday, July 31.
Before joining the nutrition program, Zuharni spent five years selling clothes door to door. He said his current job provides a stable income and is close enough to his home that he can walk to work.
The steady income has allowed him to support his family and help pay for the education of his two older children, who attend high school and elementary school.
“It won’t make us rich, but it is enough. We can cover our daily needs, pay for the children’s schooling, and thank God, it has been sufficient,” he said.
