Out of 12 gas cylinders inspected, several were color-coded pink, blue, red, and green, with some confirmed to be Malaysian products, Maria said.
However, she did not investigate further the reasons for the presence of Malaysian gas cylinders.
The LPG supply is crucial for the smooth operation of the Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG), a government initiative launched by President Prabowo Subianto to provide free meals to schoolchildren.
The program depends on adequate facilities and resources, including gas supplies.
“Local businesses, especially those supporting the nutrition service unit, should pay attention to ensuring sufficient gas availability,” Maria said.
She urged gas providers to support kitchens participating in the MBG program, as the use of Malaysian cylinders likely reflects a shortage of domestic gas supplies based on operational experience.
The nutrition kitchen at Muhammadiyah High School currently serves 2,965 beneficiaries from various schools across Tarakan, including kindergartens, elementary, junior high, and senior high schools.
The program covers students from TK Kuncup Mekar, TKIT Al Mustaqim, SD IT Al Mustaqim, SD Utama 2, SDN 021, SD Patra Dharma, SMP Muhammadiyah, SMP MBS, SMP Kumi, SMA Patra, MAN, SMA Muhammadiyah, and SMA MBS.
The Free Nutritious Meal Program, Indonesia’s free lunch initiative under the administration of President Prabowo Subianto, has been implemented in stages since January 6, 2025.
The program targets students from early childhood education centers (PAUD) to senior high and vocational schools, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding mothers.
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Translator: Susylo A, Rahmad Nasution
Editor: Primayanti
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