The Free Nutritious Meal (Makan Bergizi Gratis/MBG) program initiated by President Prabowo Subianto is set to be implemented in January 2025.
The government has allocated IDR 10,000 per portion, with meals tailored to the capabilities of each region.
“From a planning perspective, I believe IDR 10,000 per child is feasible. Of course, its implementation must be continuously monitored, evaluated, and improved,” said Dr. Toto Sudargo, a nutritionist from UGM, during an interview at the UGM campus on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024.
Dr. Sudargo described the free nutritious meal program as a noble initiative, highlighting that not every country can undertake such a large-scale program.
He explained that with the budget provided, each region can design menus based on the availability of local resources and natural wealth.
“Some regions still rely on rice, while in areas like Papua, alternatives like sago, papeda, or corn can be used. For carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, options such as fish, eggs, meat, or other plant-based sources can be adjusted according to regional resources,” he elaborated.
Regarding the allocated IDR 10,000 per portion, Dr. Sudargo believes this cost can be reduced through cross-subsidies and by minimizing additional expenses such as school transportation costs.
He suggested preparing meals in areas close to the schools to achieve this.
In addition to nutritional and cost aspects, the Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing (FK-KMK UGM) lecturer emphasized the role of the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) and the National Nutrition Agency in overseeing the program’s implementation.
This oversight ensures the program meets nutritional requirements and maintains food safety until it is consumed.
Dr. Sudargo also stressed the importance of optimizing the presentation of meals.
He noted that meals should align with children’s preferences to minimize or eliminate food waste.
“It’s okay if the portions are small, but the meals should be made appealing so children like them and are willing to eat,” he added.
Dr. Sudargo underscored that the MBG program must be implemented thoughtfully, as it directly impacts children—the golden generation of the nation’s future.
He urged the government to prioritize the quality of the food over the quantity provided.
“When we provide meals for children, the government must avoid focusing solely on profit or cost efficiency,” he emphasized.
Dr. Sudargo expressed hope that the program would run successfully with the support and involvement of various stakeholders, including Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), the media, and the community.
These parties, he said, play a vital role in ensuring the program’s continuous improvement.
“This is a nutrition program for the nation’s future generation. Let’s all work together to refine and support one another to meet the nutritional needs of Indonesian children,” he concluded.
Author: Lazuardi
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Lintang Andwyna Nurseisa Azrien
Photo: Freepik