Maluku's MBG program ensures children's nutrition daily

hartono · Jun 16, 2025

Minister of National Development Planning (Bappenas) Rachmat Pambudy during a visit to a Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) kitchen in Ambon, Maluku, on June 16, 2025. ANTARA/Dedy Azis

Ambon, Maluku (ANTARA) - The Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program in Ambon, Maluku Province, has been implemented effectively, through the fulfillment of hygiene standards, maintenance of proper kitchens, and provision of meals meeting children's nutritional needs.

Minister of National Development Planning (Bappenas) Rachmat Pambudy during a visit to an elementary school SDN 74 in Ambon on Monday inspected a kitchen operating for providing the MBG meals.

“We came here to assess the feasibility of MBG kitchens, and I think this is a good example. It meets hygiene standards and offers nutritionally balanced meals, including carbohydrates, protein, fruit, milk, and even proper handwashing facilities,” Pambudy remarked.

The minister's inspection is part of the central government’s efforts to ensure the MBG program's readiness and effectiveness as a national priority, aimed at reducing stunting and improving children’s nutritional intake across regions.

Minister Pambudy emphasized that the MBG program is not only crucial for meeting children’s daily nutritional needs but also serves as a long-term investment in Indonesia’s human capital.

“This program is a real form of the state’s presence in improving the quality of future generations, especially in areas still struggling with access to balanced nutrition,” he remarked.

He noted that when children receive proper nutrition, they learn better and are expected to grow into future leaders.

Pambudy also stressed the importance of local government involvement and community participation in supporting the program’s success.

Meanwhile, Maluku Governor Hendrik Lewerissa, who accompanied the minister during the visit, stated that the provincial government has prepared the MBG supporting infrastructure, including public kitchens, cooking staff, and a supply of nutritious, locally sourced ingredients.

The Free Nutritious Meals program is part of the strategic national agenda under the Medium-Term National Development Plan (RPJMN), focusing on human development and strengthening basic services in education and health.