JAKARTA – The Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program, one of the central government’s flagship programs, continues to strengthen its quality. Not only is the government targeting expanded distribution to various regions, but it is also ensuring that the food received by students is guaranteed nutritious and hygienic through modern procedures.
In East Kalimantan, the East Kalimantan Regional Police’s Medical and Health Division (Biddokkes) and the Balikpapan Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) held a Technical Working Meeting (Rakernis) to discuss food safety preparedness in overseeing the MBG program.
East Kalimantan Regional Police Chief, Inspector General Endar Priantoro, stated that Biddokkes, along with the BPOM, is assisting from a health and nutrition perspective. He emphasized the importance of multi-layered supervision to ensure that the food served meets health standards.
“The Head of the Health and Drug Monitoring Agency (Biddokkes) has studied the quality of the food in terms of hygiene and nutritional content, and the results are good for implementation,” Endar said.
Nitra Wahyuningsih, First Expert Pharmaceutical and Food Supervisor, Balikpapan BPOM, expressed a similar sentiment. She explained that supervision is carried out comprehensively, from the receipt of raw materials, through processing, packaging, and distribution of food to schools.
“SPPG services in Balikpapan are still limited due to operational permit constraints. Several SPPGs are still in the licensing process to meet the needs of the MBG program more broadly,” said Nitra.
The benefits of MBG are also being felt in Lebak Regency, Banten. According to data from the local Education Office, 225,055 students from early childhood education (PAUD), elementary school, and junior high school have benefited from the program. The Secretary of the Lebak Regency Education Office, Maman Suryaman, stated that the program has increased students’ motivation to learn while helping to alleviate poverty.
“The benefits are extraordinary, not only increasing intelligence but also increasing enthusiasm for learning. We are requesting stricter supervision by involving national nutritionists to ensure the food quality remains hygienic,” said Maman.
In Pringsewu, Lampung, the Sedulur Sewu SPPG public kitchen ensures that every meal is prepared according to standard operating procedures (SOP). The Head of the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG), Mad Khotib, explained that all workers regularly attend briefings before starting work to ensure hygiene standards are maintained.
“The menu changes daily with fresh ingredients. Cleanliness is always a priority,” he explained.
The MBG program has proven to not only fill students’ stomachs but also foster healthy lifestyle habits from an early age. With strict supervision and modern hygiene procedures, the government is optimistic that MBG will produce a smart, healthy, and strong generation for the nation’s future.
(*/rls)
