Hundreds of Students at Manbaul Hakim Islamic Boarding School in Sidoarjo Suspected of Food Poisoning from Free Nutritious Meal Programme

Hundreds of students at the Manbaul Hikam Islamic Boarding School (Ponpes) in Putat Village, Tanggulangin District, Sidoarjo, are suspected of suffering food poisoning after consuming Free Nutritious Meals (MBG). The Head of the Sidoarjo Regency Health Office, Dr Lakhsmie Herawati Yuwantina, stated that 293 students have been poisoned and are currently receiving treatment in hospitals.

Reports indicate that the mass poisoning incident likely occurred on Monday (1st September), following the students’ midday prayers. Symptoms began to manifest during the afternoon prayer period, and by sunset, many students had been rushed to various hospitals.

During the incident, dozens of ambulances were seen entering and leaving the boarding school to transport students experiencing poisoning symptoms to local hospitals and community health centres (Puskesmas).

“There are 293 students being treated across eight hospitals,” said the Sidoarjo Health Office Head, Dr Lakhsmie.

Meanwhile, the Regent of Sidoarjo, Subandi, is set to inspect the Kalitengah Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG) in Tanggulangin following the poisoning of the hundreds of students. Subandi has threatened to shut down the facility if its licensing and operations are found to be non-compliant.

“God willing, tomorrow we will conduct an inspection there, alongside all relevant departments, including those responsible for licensing and the Health Office, to investigate what the issue is there,” said Subandi.