Hundreds of Students on Anambas Island Suspected of MBG Poisoning
Hundreds of students in Siantan Tengah subdistrict, Anambas Islands Regency, Riau, are suspected to have experienced poisoning after consuming free nutritious meals (MBG) served by the local nutrition fulfilment service unit (SPPG) on Wednesday, 15 April 2026.
Acting Head of the Health, Population Control and Family Planning Office, Feri Oktavia, stated that the students began showing symptoms a few hours after eating the food.
“After eating the meal served by the SPPG in Siantan Tengah, a few hours later the students experienced nausea and vomiting. They were then immediately taken to health facilities,” Feri told Tempo on Thursday, 16 April 2026.
She explained that the victims came from various educational levels, from early childhood education (PAUD), kindergarten (TK), primary school (SD) to junior high school (SMP) in the Siantan Tengah subdistrict area. Additionally, there were also affected adults and elderly individuals.
“Indeed, there are also groups of adults or elderly who were affected, because they consumed MBG brought home by their children or grandchildren,” she clarified.
The victims received treatment at two health facilities, namely the Siantan Tengah Community Health Centre (Puskesmas) and Palmatak General Hospital (RSUD). Based on preliminary data up to now, the number of patients treated at RSUD Palmatak reached 114 people.
“Of that number, 110 people have been allowed to go home, while four people are still under care,” said Feri.
Meanwhile, at the Siantan Tengah Puskesmas, 41 people received medical treatment. 39 patients have been discharged, while the other two are still undergoing treatment.
Feri added that the majority of patients came with the same complaints, namely nausea and vomiting. They then underwent examinations and received treatment according to their respective conditions.
“Patients come to the puskesmas or hospital with symptoms of nausea and vomiting, then are examined and given medication,” she said.
To date, the exact cause of the incident is still under investigation by the relevant parties. Preliminary suspicions point to the MBG served by the SPPG Siantan Tengah. “The cause is still being examined,” she said.