Minister: Free Nutritious Meal Programme to Target Needy Students, School Canteen Role Still Under Review

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education (Mendikdasmen) Abdul Mu’ti has stated that the policy scenario regarding the involvement of school canteens in distributing the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme is still being drafted. He confirmed that a decision has been made at the ministerial level to target the programme’s benefits specifically at students who need them, rather than providing meals universally. “The mechanism for how this will work is still being developed so that the programme can run well,” Abdul Mu’ti said in Yogyakarta on Sunday.

He explained that the distribution policy is under the authority of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), while his ministry provides input to ensure the programme’s goals, as envisioned by President Prabowo Subianto, are achieved. The minister emphasised that the spirit of the MBG programme is to build a physically healthy generation free from stunting. He added that prioritising students who truly need the meals would make the programme more targeted.

Furthermore, Abdul Mu’ti stressed that the MBG programme is not solely about providing nutritious food but is also integrated with character education in schools. It forms part of the seven ‘Great Indonesian Children’ habits, specifically promoting healthy and nutritious eating. The ministry has published various guidelines on integrating character education with the MBG programme and continues to coordinate with the National Nutrition Agency while awaiting further implementing policies.