President Prabowo Ensures Smooth Implementation of Free Nutritious Meal Program in Regions

President Prabowo Subianto gives directives to Graduates for Driving Indonesia’s Development (SPPI) through a video conference from the State Palace in Jakarta, Tuesday (02/18). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat)

In a bid to ensure the sustainability of the free nutritious meal (MBG) program, President Prabowo Subianto on Tuesday (02/18) met with Graduates for Driving Indonesia’s Development (SPPI), an organization initiated by the Ministry of Defense aimed at creating the next generation with academic excellence and high dedication to advance the nation.

This meeting served as momentum for the President to underscore the importance of accelerating the MBG program’s implementation and closely supervising its distribution.

On that occasion, the President conversed directly with the graduates, who reported on the implementation of the MBG program in their respective regions.

Adhian Mahri, a graduate representative from Asahan regency, North Sumatra province, pointed out that the program execution in his region went smoothly.

“Everything went well and under control, sir. We hope that all children in Asahan can receive the same benefits in the acceleration. Their parents are very grateful since this program allows the children to eat together. They eat the same food, and there is no difference between them, regardless of their social class,” he said.

Meanwhile, Irman, representing West Kalimantan province, revealed that there are 26 Nutritional Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) serving 152 schools in his region.

“Please keep up your spirit. Do your duties as best as possible. Monitor it well. Remember, this food program is crucial. Maintain the hygiene and cleanliness of the kitchen and everything, including the kitchen staff’s clothes, head covering, and gloves. Everything must be clean,” President Prabowo responded.

In the meantime, Regina, a representative from North Sulawesi province, stated that the MBG program in Bitung city was only rolled out the day before, adding that the implementation went well.

On the other hand, a representative from Sidenreng Rappang regency, South Sulawesi province, reported that although the program has not begun yet in their region, preparation has reached 100 percent, and two SPPGs are ready to roll it out.

The President also reminded the graduates that every rupiah spent on this program must be fully utilized for the benefit of children, adding that this is a noble task to improve the nutrition and education quality of Indonesian children.

“Let me remind you to maintain hygiene, monitor everything, and implement everything as best as possible. This is a noble task for our children: to maintain their health, to make them strong, and to make them learn with eagerness. Every rupiah must be used for the benefit of our children,” he remarked. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat/ABD) (DH/MMB)