Central Java Deputy Governor Reveals Reasons Behind Hundreds of Demak Students Poisoned by Free Nutritious Meals

Central Java Deputy Governor Taj Yasin has expressed his sorrow regarding the suspected poisoning case from the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme affecting more than a hundred students in Pilangwetan Village, Kebonagung Subdistrict, Demak Regency. Nevertheless, he assessed that indications of poisoning often relate to improper management of the MBG distribution schedule. “Usually, the poisoning occurs because the schedule arrangement is not precise. This food has a consumption period, so it must be delivered on time and consumed immediately,” stated Taj Yasin after attending an event at the Central Java TVRI Office in Batursari, Mranggen, Demak, on Tuesday (21/4/2026). He requested that schools and pesantrens actively guide students or santri to consume MBG right after distribution. “Do not store the food first and eat it later,” he said. Yasin assured that the government will not hesitate to impose sanctions on nutrition fulfilment service units (SPPG) proven to be negligent in processing and serving MBG. Sanctions may range from guidance to revocation of operational permits. “There have already been cases of kitchen closures in Central Java. This serves as a severe warning. The central government has also issued warnings, with stages of sanctions up to permit revocation,” said Yasin.