Cimahi city government temporarily halts school meal programme following poisoning incident
Cimahi City Government in West Java has temporarily halted the operational activities of the Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG) following an alleged poisoning incident that affected dozens of students and one teacher.
Cimahi Mayor Ngatiyana stated that SPPG operations would not be permitted to continue temporarily whilst an investigation is completed as a precautionary measure.
He explained that 43 poisoning victims were students from kindergarten, primary school and lower secondary school, as well as one teacher.
All victims have received maximum care at three hospitals: 33 patients at Cibabat General Hospital with four admitted, 22 discharged and seven under observation. Five patients are at Mitra Hospital with three admitted and two discharged, and five patients are at Dustira Hospital with four admitted and one discharged.
The Head of Cimahi City Health Services, Mulyati, added that preliminary investigation results indicate victims consumed meals distributed from the SPPG, which were consumed during the iftar (breaking of the fast) period. “Some were given food from the SPPG and some ate after breaking the fast, and for small children some may have eaten around 11am or noon,” she said.
Dozens of students experienced poisoning symptoms including vomiting and dizziness after consuming the meals, leading them to be taken to health facilities. “On average they experienced vomiting, nausea and dizziness,” she added.
She explained that the SPPG, which produces 2,662 meal packages daily, does not yet possess a Sanitation and Hygiene Certificate (SLHS), although laboratory testing of water, food, beverages and eating utensils—required for SLHS issuance—has been completed.
“Laboratory results have come back negative, meaning it is safe and meets the requirements for the SLHS, but the certificate has not yet been issued,” she stated.
She noted that the SLHS has not been issued because the SPPG has not completed supporting documents, including an application letter, facility layout drawings, and documentation from the National Nutrition Board (BGN).