DPR Member: Free Nutritious Meals Programme Exemplifies Healthy, Affordable Nutrition
Palembang — A member of Commission IX of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Sri Meliyana, has emphasised that the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, one of President Prabowo Subianto’s priority initiatives, exemplifies healthy and balanced nutrition that is not expensive.
“The MBG food menu is sufficiently comprehensive and inexpensive, containing protein, carbohydrates, fibre, and vitamins from fruits and vegetables,” said Sri Meliyana following a socialisation activity in Lahat Regency, South Sumatra, on Tuesday.
According to her, nutritious food does not have to be expensive because there are many options available according to the conditions of each region, such as eggs and vegetables.
“The essence of MBG is to improve health and educate the community in meeting nutritional needs, particularly for children as the future generation of the nation,” she stated.
She emphasised that the establishment of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) represents a strategic step to strengthen coordination, synergy, and integration of nutrition programmes at national and regional levels.
By involving the community as oversight, the programme is expected to continue running well, be sustainable, and succeed for the benefit of Indonesia’s future. When the government provides it for free, it makes it easier for people to meet their correct nutritional requirements.
The programme also serves as education that nutritious food is not fatty food, but healthy food according to bodily needs.
Meanwhile, Rahma Dewi Auliyasari, operational services officer for the Promotion and Cooperation Division of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), added that MBG is one of President Prabowo Subianto’s priority programmes aimed at building a healthy, intelligent, and competitive Indonesian generation.
Furthermore, through MBG the government is also endeavouring to reduce cases of stunting and developmental disorders in children caused by chronic malnutrition.
The MBG programme is not merely about providing nutritious meals, but is also designed to create employment opportunities that can stimulate the local economy.
“Through MBG, the government wants to ensure all Indonesian children receive healthy and nutritious food,” Rahma explained.