Ambon City Government evaluates MBG management with BGN

Ambon City Government, Maluku, is evaluating the management of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme in partnership with representatives from the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), the Nutrition Service Unit (SPPG), and the programme’s managing partners to ensure the initiative delivers real benefit to residents.

‘MBG, as a government priority programme, must provide benefits not only in terms of children’s nutrition but also have an impact on the local economy,’ Mayor Bodewin M. Wattimena said in Ambon on Wednesday.

The evaluation was led directly by the Mayor in a coordination meeting at Ambon City Hall.

‘If we buy raw materials in Ambon, traders’ sales will improve, and there will be an economic impact for local residents, in addition to proper nutrition for the children,’ he said.

He noted that the National Nutrition Agency needs to work with local food suppliers, including those in Ambon. Alongside promoting local economic circulation, this step also helps prevent food stockpiling that risks spoilage.

He also stressed the importance of empowering local workers in the programme’s implementation through SPPG. He said that if the programme is implemented in Ambon, local residents should have the opportunity to fill available positions.

‘If it’s in Ambon, residents of the city must be employed. This is certainly aimed at reducing unemployment. Today we have an opportunity to contribute to many people. Do your best for this city,’ he said.

Additionally, Wattimena urged SPPG to be more creative and transparent in performing its duties to bolster public trust in the quality of the meals prepared.

‘Start being open to the public by posting all actions taken. Over time, people will no longer harbour negative thoughts about this Free Nutritious Meals programme,’ he said.

He hopes the feedback discussed in the meeting can be taken into account by BGN and the managing partners, so MBG implementation in Ambon City will improve in the future, both in terms of the economy, nutrition, and public trust.