Jakarta — The government continues to accelerate the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG) in disadvantaged, frontier, and outermost regions (3T) as a commitment to building a healthy, active, and productive generation.
Morotai Regency, North Maluku, is one of the main focus areas because despite facing logistical challenges, this region is rich in local food potentials that can be utilized.
Deputy for Food Diversification and Food Security at the National Food Agency (NFA), Andriko Noto Susanto, emphasized that the success of MBG cannot be separated from regional strengths.
“Morotai is a surplus fish-producing area, a source of high-quality protein that can become a nutritional staple for school children,” he said.
He added that fish is not Morotai’s only strength. Agricultural products such as vegetables and fruits also play an important role in meeting the daily nutritional needs of children.
“The use of local food not only fulfills the mandate of Presidential Regulation No. 81 of 2024 but also strengthens regional food security while boosting the local economy,” he stated.
Thus, a local-based food supply chain can be built sustainably.
Regarding the provision of strategic food ingredients, Andriko noted the significant role of the Merah Putih Village Cooperative.
“KopDes Merah Putih can be a supplier of SPHP rice, cooking oil, sugar, and other foodstuffs. Its existence is important to strengthen food self-sufficiency and reduce dependence on outside regions,” he explained.
This view aligns with the statement from Deputy for Coordination of Food Accessibility and Security at the Coordinating Ministry for Food Affairs, Nani Hendiarti.
She emphasized the importance of synergy among stakeholders in utilizing local food ingredients.
“This program should avoid sourcing MBG staple foods from outside Morotai if they are available locally. The role of local governments is crucial to encourage farmers, fishermen, breeders, and local partners,” she said.
In this way, the supply chain can absorb the community’s production.
From the nutrition quality perspective, Director of Nutrition Fulfillment Management at the National Nutrition Agency, Sitti Aida Adha Taridala, stressed the importance of menu standards.
“The success of MBG is measured not only by the number of beneficiaries but also by the quality and sustainability of the menu. Every MBG menu must meet nutritional standards with a combination of carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, and minerals according to technical guidelines,” she affirmed.
She added that strengthening the management of Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) will continue.
“With good management, we are not only feeding children but also building a healthy, intelligent generation ready to compete,” she concluded.