Indonesia opens campus-based kitchen to expand free meals programme
Minister Yuliarto noted that Hasanuddin University (Unhas) established the kitchen, formally known as a nutrition fulfillment service unit (SPPG), to contribute tangibly to the national program while strengthening its role as an independent institution.
“The point is how higher education institutions can play a role in supporting Mr. President’s initiatives, including the MBG program,” he remarked during the launch ceremony on Tuesday.
He urged Indonesian universities to avoid being passive and to start concrete efforts to help boost the nutritional intake of communities.
In this regard, Yuliarto explained that Unhas aims to develop the MBG kitchen into a hub for student research and practical learning.
“This SPPG will become a site for practice, research, and further development initiatives for the MBG program,” the minister remarked.
Meanwhile, BGN Head Dadan Hindayana underscored Unhas as the first state university recognized as a legal entity to set up an SPPG.
On that note, he lauded the university for its staunch commitment to proactively responding to government programs and policies.
“The willingness of campuses to get involved in the MBG program is essential because they have technology, human resources, and innovation that can be leveraged to advance this program,” the BGN chief said.
President Prabowo Subianto initiated the MBG program as a strategic tool to expand access to quality food nationwide while boosting human development, public health, the economy, and employment.
Launched in January 2025, the program has served about 62 million schoolchildren, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and under-five children across Indonesia, supported by more than 26,000 SPPGs absorbing locally sourced ingredients and employing over one million workers.
The government has set a target to expand outreach to 83 million people this year, with plans to extend coverage to elderly residents and people with disabilities.
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Translator: Abdul Kadir, Tegar Nurfitra