National Nutrition Agency to Include Nutrition Experts and Paediatricians in Advisory Board

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Nanik S. Deyang, stated that the agency will involve nutrition experts and paediatricians in the BGN Advisory Board to support the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme.

Speaking at the State Palace in Jakarta on Monday, Nanik noted, “The BGN Advisory Board will be composed of nutrition professors and paediatricians.” She explained that the Advisory Board has been part of the BGN’s structure since the agency’s inception and is tasked with providing direction and guidance to the BGN leadership in executing the agency’s programmes.

In addition to nutritionists, the inclusion of paediatricians is intended to strengthen the nutritional and health aspects of the MBG programme. Nanik stated that the Advisory Board will serve as a support mechanism for the BGN leadership in fulfilling the agency’s duties and responsibilities. The board will consist of seven members, five of whom are expected to be nutrition experts.

According to Nanik, during the initial formation of the BGN, President Prabowo Subianto prioritised the involvement of foundations operating in the social, educational, and religious sectors in the programme. She clarified that the technical guidelines for the programme’s implementation do not specifically require kitchen management foundations to be affiliated with schools, although such involvement is encouraged.