Jayapura — The Free Nutritional Meal Program (MBG) is not merely a nutritional fulfillment program, but a concrete manifestation of the state’s presence in building social justice for all children of the nation, including in Papua. The central government, together with the Papua Provincial Government, is now accelerating the implementation of this program by strengthening regional capacity and empowering local food.
The designation of Cenderawasih University as a Regional Center of Excellence (RCOE) demonstrates the government’s commitment. Here, local training, research, and innovation will thrive to support the implementation of the MBG program, adapting to the conditions in Papua.
“The Papua Provincial Government is fully committed to supporting the sustainability of the MBG program. This commitment is not merely administrative, but includes multi-stakeholder involvement and strengthening human resources at the grassroots level,” said Matias Mano, Acting Expert Staff to the Governor of Papua for Community and Cultural Development.
The MBG program in Papua targets toddlers, pregnant women, and students in remote areas who have traditionally struggled to access nutritious food. This initiative also serves as a long-term social investment to build a healthy, intelligent, and productive generation of Papuans.
“Behind a simple plate of food lies enormous potential for the region,” said Rinna Syawal, Director of Food Consumption Diversification at the National Food Agency. She added, “Our food potential is incredibly large. But we’re still used to eating the same things.”
Rinna emphasized that Indonesia has more than 77 types of carbohydrates, 75 types of animal protein, and hundreds of local vegetables and fruits. All of these could become regional economic strengths if integrated into the MBG kitchen.
“The contents of a Papuan child’s plate don’t have to be the same as those in Java. Because the food is different, the culture is different. From there, we can build independence,” she said.
The program also encourages the establishment of satellite kitchens in remote areas. This concept ensures healthy food is served more quickly and also stimulates the village economy. “If possible, children should eat what is grown on their own land. Because food is not just about satiety, but also about sovereignty,” Rinna emphasized.
Developing Papua means developing its people. The MBG program must be seen as the main foundation for shaping a healthy, intelligent, and competitive future generation. MBG is a new hope. This is not a temporary program, but a strategic foundation for building Papua from the dinner table to the future.