By: Hana Widya Saraswati
The Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program has been proven to make a significant contribution in reducing the risk of growth disorders in children. This program is more than just providing meals; it serves as a long-term foundation for the quality of Indonesia’s young generation. Nutrition experts emphasize the importance of public support to ensure the program’s outcomes are optimized.
Doddy Izwardy, Chairman of the Indonesian Nutritionists Association (Persagi), highlighted that MBG standards are based on scientific principles with strict monitoring mechanisms. Menus are designed according to the nutritional needs of children at various age levels, following the daily nutritional adequacy guidelines set by the Ministry of Health. The quality control process covers the selection of ingredients, storage, preparation, packaging, and distribution to schools, ensuring that the food is safe and nutritious.
Doddy also pointed out the social aspect of MBG. Children are becoming more familiar with healthy foods because of the communal eating environment at schools. This phenomenon is similar to Posyandu sessions, where children are more motivated to eat when they see their peers eating enthusiastically. In this way, MBG not only provides nutrition but also helps instill sustainable healthy eating habits.
Nutrition expert Ni Ketut Sutiari emphasized the critical role of schools. Schools should not merely receive the meals but be involved from the planning stage, including menu design, selection of food suppliers, and evaluation of food quality. Active participation from schools is believed to maintain optimal nutritional standards throughout program implementation.
MBG is a strategic solution in reducing stunting rates in Indonesia. Regular access to nutritious meals gives children the opportunity to grow optimally and be productive. In Bali, for instance, the prevalence of stunting is only 8.7 percent (Indonesia Nutrition Status Survey 2024), making the province the lowest in the country. Dr. Putu Astri Dewi Miranti, Head of Public Health at the Bali Provincial Health Office, stated that over 75 percent of specific intervention targets for stunting prevention have been achieved.
This success highlights the importance of an integrated approach: 30 percent through specific interventions (such as MBG) and 70 percent through sensitive interventions involving sanitation, clean water, health coverage, and public education on stunting. The Bali Provincial Government has formed a stunting acceleration team involving all regional agencies to ensure comprehensive and coordinated action.
With active support from the community, schools, and government, MBG has the potential to be a long-term investment in the future of Indonesian children. The program not only fulfills current nutritional needs but also builds a healthy, high-quality generation ready to face future challenges.
Consultant on Social Empowerment – National Welfare Center