Prisoners "Enter" the MBG Tangerang Kitchen: The Rigorous Selection Process They Must Undergo

TANGERANG - Several inmates from Class 1 Tangerang Prison are involved in the operations of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) kitchen at the Babakan Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG) in Tangerang City, Banten. The involvement of these inmates has been confirmed to have undergone a rigorous selection process, ranging from psychological tests to health examinations. Head Chef of SPPG Babakan, Chef Kuming, emphasised that the workforce from inmates is not chosen haphazardly but through multi-layered screening stages. “These inmates are not just anyone; they have been tested by psychologists, their health, and everything else very strictly,” said Kuming on Thursday (23/4/2026). He explained that all inmates on duty are ensured to be in good physical and mental health. However, the inmates are not involved in the cooking process or food preparation, and they are not allowed to handle sharp objects. “So, they come here, God willing, without bringing any contagious diseases, and not in a condition that could be called mental disturbances,” he stressed. According to Chef Kuming, the interest among inmates to work in the SPPG kitchen is quite high. However, not all can be accepted immediately as they must go through additional selection from the prison authorities. “Many from the prison’s inmates want to work here. But they are sorted again by the prison itself, from their attitude, suitability, mentality, and so on; they enter very strictly,” he said. “Four to five prison officers are still on standby here. Guarding the front door, back door, and windows. So, God willing, it’s safe,” he added. He further stated that the collaboration between SPPG Babakan and Class 1 Tangerang Prison in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is hoped to become part of the rehabilitation for inmates before they return to society. Thus, the MBG programme not only provides nutritional benefits but also opens up opportunities for rehabilitation and social mentoring for inmates.