Kupang (ANTARA) - Indonesia’s National Police have prepared 22 kitchens in East Nusa Tenggara to support the government’s Free Nutritious Meals program aimed at improving nutrition and public health, regional police chief Rudi Darmoko said Monday.

“To date, we have prepared 22 nutrition fulfillment service units across several districts and cities in East Nusa Tenggara,” Darmoko told reporters in Kupang.

He said 16 kitchens, known as SPPGs, are under construction, three are preparing for operations, and three are already serving beneficiaries under the meals program.

The kitchens are expected to support schoolchildren, pregnant women, and vulnerable residents in Kupang City and districts including East Flores, Alor, West Sumba, East Manggarai, Belu, North Central Timor, Sikka, and South Central Timor.

Darmoko said the program aims not only to improve nutrition but also to strengthen local economies by involving farmers, fishermen, livestock breeders, and small businesses as suppliers.

He said the program is expected to absorb locally sourced commodities including corn, fish, eggs, moringa leaves, chicken, and vegetables produced in East Nusa Tenggara.

The police chief said authorities would closely monitor implementation to ensure compliance with government food safety and quality standards.

He added that regional police are coordinating with local governments, suppliers, farmers, and businesses to support the program despite logistical challenges in remote island areas.

“Our mission is to ensure Polri’s presence delivers concrete benefits to the public. This program is a long-term investment in the future of East Nusa Tenggara’s children,” Darmoko said.

Earlier, National Police Chief Gen. Listyo Sigit Prabowo said police had launched development of 1,376 SPPGs nationwide, with 736 already operating.

He said the kitchens are projected to serve 3.44 million people and create 68,800 jobs once all facilities become operational.

Related news: Prabowo defends military role in food security push

Related news: Prabowo hails police's food security role in free meals program









Translator: K. Kaha, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2026