Palembang – The government is actively and progressively distributing aid in the Free Nutritious Food Program (MBG) for pregnant women and toddlers in various regions of Indonesia.
The aid distributed is in the form of complete nutritious food packages such as eggs, milk, nuts, vegetables, fruits, and other sources of protein, which are adjusted to the nutritional needs of each recipient group. This shows the government’s thoroughness and concern in designing programs based on data and real needs in the field.
The Minister of Population and Family Development (Mendukbangga), Wihaji led the direct distribution of MBG aid to pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers at Posyandu Mawar, Ilir Barat II, Palembang, South Sumatra.
“In principle, one of the functions of MBG for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers is to prevent stunting,” said Wihaji.
Wihaji added that stunting prevention starts from the First 1000 Days of Life (HPK), starting from pregnant women to toddlers.
“Therefore, they are given nutritional intake so that after the age of two, God willing, it is safe. If it is past two years and stunting occurs, the cure is quite difficult,” said Wihaji.
The government understands this urgency and through the MBG program, has shown total commitment in building the foundation of national health from an early age.
Minister Wihaji also emphasized the importance of providing nutritional intake according to the needs of each target group.
“The menu will be adjusted later. Pregnant women have their needs measured, breastfeeding mothers are different, toddlers are also different. It is impossible for three-year-old toddlers to be given hard food. All of this is designed by nutritionists,” continued Wihaji.
This proves that the government is not only providing assistance, but also involving a scientific and professional approach in each of its interventions.
Meanwhile, the Governor of South Sumatra, Herman Deru, said that funding for the MBG program in his region came from the National Nutrition Agency (BGN).
“We have a moral responsibility as representatives of the central government to supervise it,” said Herman Deru.
This statement shows that the synergy between the central and regional governments is working very well in making a visionary national program that directly touches the needs of grassroots communities a success.
The MBG program is a leading government initiative in improving the nutritional resilience of poor and vulnerable families, as well as preventing stunting in a sustainable manner. With this program, the government has proven that direct and targeted intervention can have a major impact on Indonesia’s future.
