“This concerns our children’s future. No family in need should be overlooked,” Wihaji noted in an official statement here on Thursday.
He made these remarks during a visit to the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) kitchen operated by the ODA Masa Depan Utama Foundation, which currently serves approximately 3,900 elementary school students under the MBG program in Pasuruan City, East Java.
Wihaji explained that the MBG program is designed to directly assist vulnerable groups, aiming to lower stunting rates and build a healthier future generation.
He emphasized that MBG is not merely an assistance program but part of a greater national vision to advance Indonesia by strengthening families.
“One of the leading causes of stunting is a lack of nutrition. That is why the president and vice president are focusing on MBG as a long-term investment to create an excellent future generation,” he explained.
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The minister also stressed the importance of precisely targeting MBG recipients, especially families at risk of stunting. To ensure aid reaches those most in need, family assistance teams (TPK) will be tasked with collecting data on eligible beneficiaries.
Wihaji noted that the MBG distribution to pregnant and breastfeeding mothers must be tailored to the real conditions, as opposed to schoolchildren who receive the free meals at centralized locations, such as their schools.
Therefore, his side facilitates family planning extension officers with motorcycles to reach those beneficiaries.
He added that the program is part of the ministry's approach in regions, which is integrating family planning services with other public health education programs.
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Translator: Lintang, Kenzu
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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