"I have found allergic (students) in some schools. I myself have allergies. Hence, we will pay special attention to allergic kids by offering them differentiated menus. This will not be a problem," he explained.
After reviewing a trial for the program at Public Senior High School (SMAN) 70 Jakarta in South Jakarta on Wednesday, he noted that trials have been running for around three months in several regions.
Gibran, in the company of Jakarta Acting Governor Heru Budi Hartono, remarked that based on the results of trials, he deemed it necessary to adjust the menus provided to the varying needs of the targeted schoolchildren.
On that note, the VP-elect said he was keen that the program, co-created with President-elect Prabowo Subianto, would benefit a broad population.
"I, along with Mr. President-elect, have continued to study and identify the best formula for this program. We will soon decide several aspects, such as the budget needed and whether we will use central kitchens or work with micro, small, and medium enterprises," he stated.
Regarding the trial at SMAN 70 Jakarta, Gibran remarked that the menu offered comprised plain rice, teriyaki chicken, salad, tofu, perkedel (Indonesian croquette), eggs, and bananas. Each serving box contains around 781 calories.
He remarked that the trial entailed the distribution of 1,075 boxes of nutritious food each worth Rp25 thousand (US$1.60).
"Earlier, I told Mr. Acting Governor that the menu offered here is among the most luxurious since it is worth Rp25 thousand, whereas our previous trials offered only menus worth Rp15 thousand (US$0.96)," he remarked.
The VP-elect then reiterated that the Free Nutritious Meals program is still in the trial phase while noting that his side continues seeking inputs from various parties to perfect the program.
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Translator: Lifia M, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Arie Novarina
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