Jakarta – The government has reaffirmed its commitment to further strengthening the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals (Makan Bergizi Gratis/MBG) program through a series of comprehensive on-site evaluations. This step is taken to ensure that all food distribution processes are carried out safely, with high quality, and in accordance with established standards, particularly following an incident involving a vehicle operated by a partner of the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) that struck students and a teacher at SDN Kalibaru 01, Cilincing, North Jakarta. This evaluation is an important part of the government’s efforts to enhance the safety and quality of MBG services.
Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, emphasized that his office immediately tightened standard operating procedures (SOPs) following the incident.
“We continue to monitor the condition of the victims and ensure that all treatment is handled optimally. Operational evaluations in the field are being strengthened, including aspects of safety during distribution,” he said.
According to him, strengthening the on-the-ground implementation of MBG is the main focus so that the program can continue to run properly without similar risks.
Dadan explained that MBG services at the school had previously run smoothly since March 24, 2025. However, the regular driver fell ill over the past two days and was replaced by a backup driver.
“The replacement driver has a valid driver’s license and meets the requirements, but may lack experience. We are still investigating the exact conditions and causes,” he said.
He added that preliminary police examinations showed the vehicle was in excellent condition, including the braking system and engine, as it is a 2024 model.
“A total of 11 children have been allowed to return home. Four are still being treated at Cilincing Hospital, and seven others, including one teacher, are at Koja Hospital. Two of them still require intensive care,” Dadan Hindayana stated.
He ensured that BGN is providing full support to the victims’ families, including assistance and facilitation of healthcare services.
As part of efforts to strengthen MBG implementation, BGN has updated vehicle SOPs, particularly the mechanism for appointing backup drivers to ensure they meet the same competency standards as regular drivers.
“This has become a new point of attention for us. Vehicles must indeed be checked at all times, but now the selection of backup drivers must also be more stringent,” he added.
From the legislative oversight side, Chair of Commission X of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Hetifah Sjaifudian, stressed that a comprehensive evaluation must be conducted to strengthen MBG implementation in the field.
“A program as large as MBG must not operate without ensuring maximum safety for students. The safety of children and teachers is a non-negotiable priority,” she said.
She expressed hope that all victims would recover soon and called for a transparent investigation to ensure there were no procedural violations.
Hetifah also appreciated the government’s swift action in covering the victims’ medical costs and urged that system improvements be carried out immediately. She emphasized that Commission X of the DPR will continue to oversee the evaluation process to ensure that MBG implementation becomes stronger and safer across all schools.