Oka made the statement while overseeing the distribution of free nutritious meals to the aforementioned three groups of beneficiaries at the Anyelir 1 Integrated Health Post (Posyandu) in Ciracas, East Jakarta, on Friday.
"The government has launched the program at 190 locations, with schoolchildren as the recipients (being primarily benefited). Hence, today, we are targeting pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and kids under school age since the nation's future depends on them," she pointed out.
The 190 locations refer to the free meals kitchens, called nutrition fulfillment service units (SPPG), operational across 26 provinces.
Oka then highlighted that the primary objective of the Free Nutritious Meals program is to improve children's nutritional intake, with the aim of paving the way for a golden generation by 2045.
"By 2045, these children will become the nation's leaders, and for them to grow healthily, we need to fulfill their nutritional needs in the first 1,000 days of life," she affirmed.
On that note, the deputy minister stressed that mothers must prioritize their own and their children's nutritional intake throughout various stages, from pregnancy and breastfeeding to when children begin eating family meals.
The program also aims to familiarize children with nutritious food options.
Furthermore, Oka stated that the National Nutrition Agency has stationed financial and nutritional experts at each SPPG to provide meals with nutritional content tailored to each beneficiary group.
Head of Ciracas SPPG Agung Riyano Riyadita informed the media that his side aims to serve 302 portions of nutritious meals every Friday for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers.
According to data from the Ministry of Population and Family Development, the Anyelir 1 Posyandu currently serves four pregnant women, three breastfeeding mothers, and 23 toddlers.
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Translator: Lintang Budiyanti, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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