BPOM head Taruna Ikrar said on Friday in Jakarta that the meals were prepared by a kitchen — officially designated as a Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) — that serves 10 schools in the area.
"Our laboratory team in Kupang is examining all 10 schools connected to the program to determine the exact cause. The results will be announced once the investigation is complete," he said.
Ikrar emphasized that the government’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program requires strict oversight, adding that the cause of this "extraordinary event" must be identified to prevent future occurrences.
"There are several potential factors we are reviewing, but we will release more details at the appropriate time," he added.
He noted that BPOM is also preparing follow-up actions and implementing mitigation measures.
Meanwhile, the Kupang city administration has mobilized full medical support for the affected students, who reportedly fell ill after eating meals provided under the MBG program on Wednesday at Kupang State Junior High School 8.
"Our priority is the safety and well-being of the children. This is not the time to assign blame. The children need urgent care, including IV fluids and stabilization. That is what matters most," said Kupang Mayor Christian Widodo on Wednesday.
Students experiencing symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting are being treated at SK Lerik Regional Hospital, Mamami General Hospital, and Siloam Hospital. Mayor Widodo also visited the hospitals to check on their condition.
He said the students' condition is improving but stressed the importance of comprehensive medical care and full recovery before a complete evaluation is undertaken.
Regarding the source of the food, the mayor said he had not yet received an official report but pledged to request a detailed account. If necessary, he said, he would summon the relevant parties for further clarification and investigation.
The MBG program is a national strategic initiative aimed at schoolchildren and vulnerable groups, including children under five, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers.
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Reporter: Mecca Yumna Ning Prisie, Aditya Eko Sigit Wicakson
Editor: Anton Santoso
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