"We aim to create menus customized to local food sources in a bid to empower local ranchers, farmers, and fishermen through the program," he noted in a press release received in Jayapura, Papua Province, on Tuesday.
The official delivered the remarks during his visit to Nabire District, Central Papua, on Monday (August 11), where he reviewed the implementation of the national program and held a coordination meeting with the provincial government.
He urged the local government to fully support the MBG program and the development of its dedicated kitchens—officially called nutrition fulfillment service units (SPPGs)—to help improve the nutritional intake of local residents.
"We have set a target of completing the construction of nutrition fulfillment service units by the end of October 2025," Hindayana remarked.
Furthermore, the BGN head underlined that SPPGs operating in Central Papua could generate economic benefits for the region if they employ local residents.
Meanwhile, Deputy Governor of Central Papua Deinas Geley affirmed that the provincial government remains committed to supporting the MBG program, which has been designated as a priority by President Prabowo Subianto.
"We will continue to encourage all leaders of the eight districts in Central Papua to prioritize addressing nutritional issues," he stated.
Geley acknowledged that Central Papua is facing serious challenges with poor nutritional intake among its residents and expressed optimism that the coordination meeting with the BGN would strengthen synergy and collaboration to address the problem.
As of early August 2025, the MBG program has reached about eight million beneficiaries nationwide, including schoolchildren, toddlers, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers.
The government aims to expand coverage to at least 20 million beneficiaries before the 80th anniversary of Indonesia's Independence Day on August 17.
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Translator: Ardiles L, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
