Jakarta – In its effort to create a healthy, intelligent, and productive generation, the government has launched the Free Nutritious Meals Program (MBG) aimed at addressing stunting and malnutrition issues among children and mothers.
Acting Director of Human Development and Humanitarian Budget at the Directorate General of Budget, Diah Dwi Utami, stated that Indonesia is still facing significant challenges related to nutrition.
“Approximately 4.5 million children are still experiencing physical growth and cognitive development delays due to malnutrition. Stunting can have long-term impacts, such as reduced cognitive ability, academic performance, and productivity in the future,” Diah said.
She emphasized that the unequal access to nutritious food, especially in rural areas, remote regions, and among low socio-economic families, remains a major barrier.
“Therefore, the MBG Program becomes a solution to improve healthy food consumption, as well as the quality of health and education in the community. The hope is that this program can enhance the workforce’s competitiveness, increase employment opportunities, reduce inequality, and decrease poverty levels,” she added.
The program has also received full support from the Deputy Speaker of the MPR RI, Eddy Soeparno, who said that the Free Nutritious Meals Program could support the growth and development of children.
“This program aims to ensure that every child gets sufficient nutritional intake to support their growth and academic achievements. By creating a healthy generation, it is expected that stunting rates will decrease, students’ focus on learning will improve, and a smarter, more productive future generation will emerge,” said Eddy.
In line with this, Member of Commission IX of the DPR RI, Muazzim Akbar, expressed that President Prabowo has great attention to national development in various sectors, including health.
“The MBG Program is designed to improve the nutritional status of the community, particularly children and mothers, as well as reduce the stunting and malnutrition rates in Indonesia. Good nutrition is the foundation of building superior human resources. This is part of the government’s effort to create a more independent, prosperous, and just nation,” emphasized Muazzim.
The program is expected to reach communities across Indonesia, especially those in dire need, ensuring that no child suffers from malnutrition that impedes their optimal growth.
