Jakarta – The government has emphasized that the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Program is not only an effort to meet the community’s nutritional needs, but also a long-term investment in developing the quality of Indonesia’s human resources (HR). This program is designed to ensure that the food provided is not only healthy and nutritious, but also safe, halal, and tayib (good) according to the needs of the majority of the population.
This commitment was realized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Halal Product Guarantee Agency (BPJPH) and the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) on Synergy in Implementing Halal Product Assurance within the National Nutrition Fulfillment Program (MBG). This collaboration is expected to be a significant milestone in strengthening the overall governance of the MBG program.
In line with this, the Head of the National Agency for National Development (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, stated that nutritional fulfillment cannot be viewed in isolation. He stated that the quality of nutritious food must align with halal certification.
“Nutritional fulfillment is not only about the availability of nutritious food, but also about fulfilling the halal requirements, which are a requirement for the majority of the population. This synergy will strengthen nutritional quality while ensuring halal certification for MBG services,” Dadan explained.
Meanwhile, the Head of BPJPH, Ahmad Haikal Hasan, emphasized that this collaboration is a direct implementation of existing regulations.
He emphasized that halal certification is highly relevant because MBG involves a long supply chain, from raw material procurement to serving in the service kitchen.
“In addition to implementing regulatory mandates, this memorandum of understanding demonstrates the government’s commitment to prioritizing halal aspects. Halal certification ensures that food quality, nutrition, and safety are maintained,” Ahmad emphasized.
To date, there are 7,475 Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) that are an integral part of the MBG implementation. The government ensures that all service kitchens have certified halal supervisors. This step ensures that the public receives healthy, nutritious nutrition services that align with the values of the majority of the nation.
