“The goal of the MBG program is to improve quality nutrition among the public,” BGN expert staff Ade Tias Maulana said during an MBG public education event here on Wednesday.
He explained that adequate nutritional intake has a direct impact on children's ability to learn, and therefore, it can support human resource improvement.
According to Maulana, the MBG program reflects the government's concern for the nation's future generation.
To supply raw food materials to MBG kitchens, also known as nutrition fulfillment service units (SPPG), the BGN is collaborating with farmers, livestock breeders, and fishers.
The MBG education event, held in Bangli district, also involved House of Representatives (DPR) member Tutik Kusuma Wardhani from Bali.
Wardhani, a member of the House's Commission IX, said the government is currently facing challenges related to child nutrition fulfillment, including stunting and malnutrition.
She expressed the hope that the MBG program would help address these problems.
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“DPR Commission IX fully supports the Free Nutritious Meals program to prevent nutritional issues in Indonesia,” she said.
She also called for active public participation, starting from schools, health workers, to local community leaders, to build a participatory and comprehensive food monitoring system.
Through such cooperation, she said, Indonesia can foster a healthy, smart, and productive generation, which can help achieve the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.
According to research, Indonesia is expected to have a large young population by 2045, she highlighted.
Hence, programs like MBG are seen as key to supporting efforts to build a healthy and competitive young generation.
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Translator: Dewa, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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