Speaking to reporters in Jakarta, he affirmed that the food distributed to schools, including madrasahs (Islamic schools), has gone through strict supervision, which includes the halal status of the food.
"The food providers have been warned to ensure the food provided is halal and nutritious," Umar said.
Regarding the supervision mechanism, he noted that his ministry has forged cooperation with the MBG service providers, including in supervising the nutritional quality and distribution of the food to all madrasahs.
"All processes are monitored through an internet-connected system, allowing any issues, including whether related to distribution or food quality, to be detected immediately," he explained.
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He also emphasized the importance of students washing their hands before eating and called on schools to provide proper handwashing facilities.
The minister expressed hope that the program would help shape a smart and healthy generation, in line with President Prabowo Subianto’s broader vision for the country.
The MBG program was launched on January 6, 2025, as one of the main initiatives of President Prabowo and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka for their 2024–2029 term.
Through the program, the government aims to improve the nutritional status of children under five, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and schoolchildren up to the high school level.
In the 2026 Draft State Budget, the government has set the budget for MBG at Rp335 trillion (around USD20.5 billion).
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Translator: Asep Firmansyah, Raka Adji
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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