Head of Nutrition Service Apologises After 566 Students in Sidoarjo Suffer Food Poisoning

The Head of the Kalitengah Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG), Rafli Ridho, has apologised for the food poisoning incident involving the MBG menu experienced by students at the Manbaul Hikam Islamic boarding school in Tanggulangin. Latest data indicates that 566 students have been affected by the poisoning.

“I sincerely apologise; I am deeply regretful,” Rafli told members of the press on Wednesday (2/9/2026).

Rafli stated that the food processing for the MBG programme was essentially carried out as usual. The cooking process begins at approximately 00:00 WIB, with the food being delivered to recipients around 11:00 WIB.

“As usual, processing begins at 00:00 WIB,” he noted.

Rafli also revealed reports of victims from outside the boarding school. Five students from SDN Kalitengah 1 and SDN Kalitengah 2 were reported to be experiencing symptoms of poisoning.

“There are five students from SDN Kalitengah 1 and 2,” he said.

The reports were received by the SPPG on Tuesday (1/9) evening. According to Rafli, the reports regarding the five students arrived later than the cases involving the boarding school.

“The reports came in last night, after confirming the poisoning cases,” he added.

The Head of the Sidoarjo Regency Health Office, Dr Lakhsmie Herawati Yuwantino, stated that the total includes 531 previously recorded victims, plus 35 individuals who were evacuated to the hospital today.

“There are approximately 35 (evacuations today). They are likely at RSUD and possibly also at RS Delta Surya,” Lakhsmie told the media on Wednesday (2/9/2026).