By: Eleine Pramesti * )
The free nutritious meal program has become a concrete solution in efforts to overcome nutritional problems in various countries. The sustainability of this program depends not only on the availability of funds and policy support, but also on innovation in its implementation. With innovation, the free nutritious meal program can remain relevant, efficient, and have a broad impact on community welfare.
One form of innovation in this program is the use of digital technology for food distribution management. An application-based system can help in data collection of beneficiaries, management of food stocks, and monitoring the quality of food distributed. Through this system, transparency in the distribution of aid is also better maintained, reducing the potential for misuse and ensuring that the food provided is right on target.
In addition, the development of a menu based on local wisdom is an important innovation in maintaining the sustainability of the free nutritious meal program. Using locally available food ingredients not only reduces operational costs but also helps improve the economy of local farmers and food producers. Thus, this program not only contributes to public health but also empowers the local economy.
Ombudsman member Yeka Hendra Fatika encourages innovation and sustainability of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program. The reason is, the Ombudsman noted that the MBG program service is not only in the form of providing nutritious food for students, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers, but also has a snowballing effect (small actions can lead to bigger actions and have a big impact) on improving the welfare of farmers in the immediate environment of the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG).
Therefore, as a public service supervisory institution, the Ombudsman is committed to continuing to monitor and encourage improvements to the MBG program.
The Ombudsman, he said, wants to ensure that every challenge gets a real solution so that the MBG program will be better in the future. He also hopes that the MBG program can run more optimally and have a positive impact on Indonesian children.
One of the monitoring carried out by the Ombudsman on the free MBG program was carried out through a joint visit by the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to Warungkiara District, Sukabumi Regency, West Java. From the results of the monitoring, Yeka provided several inputs to BGN, including optimizing administration, improving food distribution, and strengthening supervision.
The Ombudsman saw that the food distribution system in the place was well organized and based on accurate data. With stricter supervision, he assessed that the quality and accuracy of the target could continue to be maintained. Meanwhile, the Head of BGN Dadan Hindayana explained that the location had been a pilot project since January 2024 and provided benefits, not only for school children, but also for the community’s economy.
Another innovative strategy is the application of fingerprint technology in the distribution of MBG, ideal for maintaining the accuracy of distribution. In addition to innovation in technology and processing, collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society is key to ensuring the sustainability of the free nutritious meal program. Partnerships with local food companies and restaurants allow for menu diversification and improved food quality.
In an effort to maintain the sustainability of the program, it is also important to educate the community about the importance of balanced nutrition. Socialization carried out through schools, community health centers, and social media can increase awareness of the benefits of nutritious food, so that the community becomes more proactive in maintaining a healthy diet.
The sustainability of the free nutritious meal program depends on various factors, including innovation in implementation, distribution management, food technology, cross-sector collaboration, and funding. With an innovative approach and the right strategy, this program can continue to run and provide long-term benefits for the welfare of the community, especially in creating a healthier and more productive generation in the future.
On the other hand, the sustainability of the free nutritious meal program can also be strengthened through supportive regulations. The government needs to establish policies that ensure the sustainability of this program, including incentives for business actors who contribute to the provision of healthy food. With clear regulations, the private sector will also be more encouraged to participate in supporting this program. The application of the circular economy concept in the management of food ingredients can also be an innovation that supports the sustainability of the program.
Previously, Minister of National Development Planning/Head of Bappenas, Rachmat Pambudy said that MBG is a strategic initiative that is relevant to achieving the Trident of National Development 2029, namely economic growth, poverty alleviation, and development of quality human resources. In addition, this step is a concrete commitment to realizing food security and improving the nutritional quality of the Indonesian people.
The free nutritious meal program not only has an impact on improving public health, but also has broad implications in the education sector. Children who receive adequate nutrition tend to be more focused in learning and have better academic achievements. Therefore, strengthening this program must be a priority in national development policies.
Finally, the success of the free nutritious meal program also requires an active role from the community as beneficiaries. Awareness of the importance of a healthy diet must continue to be built so that this program is not only a temporary aid, but also creates better consumption habits for future generations.
)* The author is an Energy Journalist at the Greenpeace Resources Institute
