Jakarta – The government continues to emphasize the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Program as a national priority designed to strengthen the quality of human resources from an early age. Amidst long-term development challenges, the government believes that investing in child nutrition is not merely a social program, but a strategic foundation for building a healthy, intelligent, and productive future generation. This commitment also aligns with the broader agenda of improving the quality of life of the community as part of the national development vision.
Member of Commission IX of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Sukur H. Nababan, said that the MBG Program is part of the national commitment to improving the quality of human resources, especially school-age children.
“This program isn’t just about providing food, but also about providing opportunities for our generation to grow up healthy, intelligent, and competitive. We want to ensure that no more children struggle to learn due to malnutrition,” said Sukur.
Sukur added that the success of the MBG requires the support and synergy of all parties, both government and community. He believes that providing nutritious food for children is not simply meeting a basic need, but a long-term investment in Indonesia’s future.
Meanwhile, BGN Young Policy Analyst, Ade Tias Maulana, emphasized the importance of improving quality standards and governance of program implementation in the regions.
“This program is a national priority and fully supported by the local government. However, we need to continue strengthening operational standards and the quality of the food served. We are open to any input for program improvements,” Ade explained.
The National Development Planning Agency (BGN), along with Commission IX of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), hopes the MBG Program can be implemented sustainably as a foundation for a healthy and superior generation of Indonesians. In addition to reducing stunting and malnutrition rates, the program is also expected to raise public awareness of the importance of consuming nutritious and safe food.
The MBG program is a crucial tool in reducing disparities in nutritional access across various regions. The government aims to ensure that every child, regardless of economic or geographic background, has an equal opportunity to receive adequate nutrition. This equality is part of a long-term strategy to develop Indonesia’s golden generation.
Through these various steps, the government emphasizes that the MBG Program is not merely a routine activity, but a significant investment in the nation’s future. By ensuring that Indonesian children grow up healthy and have optimal learning capacity, the government hopes to strengthen the foundation of national development. The MBG is expected to be a crucial momentum in preparing a superior, competitive generation capable of competing globally.