Bali – The Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program has been reaffirmed as one of the government’s concrete steps to prevent stunting and malnutrition, which remain national health challenges. Through a series of outreach campaigns in various regions, including the Wantilan Pura Dalem Sesetan in Gianyar, the government demonstrated its commitment to providing structured, sustainable, and family-based nutrition services.
I Nyoman Parta, a member of Commission VI of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), emphasized that the success of the MBG program depends not only on government policy but also on changes in people’s lifestyles to develop healthy eating habits. He believes families play a central role in shaping a physically and mentally strong generation.
“We agree that children are a precious gift. Our job isn’t just to ensure they go to school, but also to ensure they eat nutritious and balanced meals. Changing eating habits starts at home,” he said.
According to him, the biggest challenge today is the increasing consumption of ultra-processed foods among children, a habit that impacts daily nutritional needs. Nyoman Parta emphasized the need to shift society’s perspective on food, which should not only satisfy hunger but also benefit growth and development.
“Food isn’t just about filling you up. It should also be beneficial for your body. Therefore, we must change our perspective, our cooking methods, and our education about food for our children,” he continued.
Meanwhile, Alwin Supriyadi, a representative from the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), stated that the MBG program is a significant breakthrough designed to ensure every Indonesian child has the opportunity to grow optimally. Providing adequate nutrition from an early age is considered a long-term investment that determines the quality of future human resources.
“This program isn’t just about providing food. It’s about developing healthy individuals who are ready to contribute. When nutritional needs are met, children’s potential will develop to its full potential,” he stressed.
Through the MBG program, the government targets a significant reduction in stunting rates and an improvement in the quality of public health, especially in areas still facing nutritional vulnerabilities.
With an approach involving the government, health workers, and families, this program is expected to establish a strong foundation for developing a healthy, intelligent generation of Indonesians capable of competing globally. The government ensures that this program is not just a temporary intervention, but a national movement that instills awareness of the importance of nutrition as a pillar of human development.
