"The concept is to synergize, and we can even contribute by providing job opportunities," Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf remarked during a media briefing here on Tuesday.
He explained that the opportunity to work in the MBG program can be opened to beneficiaries of the government's social assistance initiatives.
The minister noted that numerous families receiving the government's social assistance program possess skills in the culinary field.
"There are many families among our beneficiaries who work in kitchens. This is a great opportunity, so we can also prepare human resources for the Free Nutritious Meals program," Yusuf stated.
Meanwhile, the Ministry has in place a similar program that supports abandoned elderly and people with disabilities.
Under the program, the Ministry distributes meals twice daily to over two thousand community groups.
Earlier, Minister Yusuf also emphasized the importance of empowering micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) run by beneficiary families.
He highlighted that 80 percent of the budget for the MBG program is allocated for purchasing ingredients or other materials from MSMEs.
This approach fosters economic optimism in areas where the program is active.
The MBG program is currently implemented in 31 provinces across Indonesia, with a total of 238 Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) already in operation to prepare food for the program.
The government aims to serve meals to three million people in the initial period of the program from January to April 2025.
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Translator: Prisca, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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