DPR Seeks Probe of Alleged Student Mobilization in Batam

Deputy Chairman of Commission X of the DPR Lalu Hadrian Irfani asked the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to investigate allegations that students in Batam were mobilized for a march supporting the Makan Bergizi Gratis program. He said involving students in protest actions or political support should not disrupt teaching and learning, and that concerns should be conveyed through schools. The march took place in front of the Batam City DPRD Building on Sunday, June 21, 2026, and was joined by hundreds of elementary and middle school students, some in uniform and carrying banners backing President Prabowo Subianto's program. Batam Education Agency head Hendri Arulan confirmed that teachers and students were invited to join the march. He said the move came after complaints from parents because the implementation of MBG in Batam had stalled as funding remained frozen.