Following Poisoning Case, Waru Food Distribution Center Operations Temporarily Halted
Deputy Regent of Penajam Paser Utara, Abdul Waris Muin, announced the temporary suspension of operations at the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) in Waru Subdistrict, Penajam Paser Utara Regency, East Kalimantan Province. The Waru SPPG, managed by the Bakti Benuo Taka Foundation, is currently awaiting the results of an investigation into suspected food poisoning in the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program.
“Operations at the SPPG in Waru Subdistrict have been temporarily halted while awaiting laboratory testing and further investigation,” Muin said, as quoted from Antara on Sunday, February 15, 2026.
Evaluation is still being carried out at the Waru Subdistrict SPPG, even though the main food items were assessed to be in good condition. A total of 25 students received medical treatment at the Waru Community Health Center after experiencing symptoms including stomachaches, vomiting, and shortness of breath. This was suspected to be caused by consuming certain MBG menu items, including pudding that was part of the meal served on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
Muin said supplementary food items sourced from outside were suspected to be the cause of the digestive problems among the 25 student beneficiaries of the MBG program.
“According to SPPG management regulations, cooperation with third parties in food provision is not permitted,” he said.
The Penajam Paser Utara Regency Government has conducted internal coordination to evaluate the management and standard operating procedures of the SPPG, including possible compensation for affected students, which is still pending further developments.
Muin acknowledged that the continuation of operations at the MBG kitchen in Waru Subdistrict is still awaiting the results of the local police investigation regarding whether there were elements of intent or negligence by the SPPG operators. To date, laboratory test results on food samples are still being awaited to determine the exact cause of the incident.
“Sanctions against the SPPG in Waru Subdistrict could include operational closure if elements of intent or negligence by the operators are found,” he said.