Raw Catfish Becomes Free Nutritious Meal Menu During Ramadan; National Nutrition Agency Says It Violates Guidelines
The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, has stated that the free nutritious meal programme (MBG) specifically for Ramadan must consist of dried or ready-to-eat foods. When asked to comment on the MBG menu containing raw catfish at SMAN 2 Pamekasan in East Java, Dadan said it does not comply with the technical guidelines. “That violates the guidelines,” Dadan said when asked for confirmation on Tuesday, 10 March 2026.
Dadan stated that his office is still examining and evaluating the nutrition service unit (SPPG) that distributed the menu. The examination and evaluation is being conducted by the BGN’s monitoring and supervision directorate.
According to the Guidelines for Implementing the MBG Programme During Ramadan in 2025, the MBG menu specifically for Ramadan must consist of lightweight, practical, and long-lasting foods. Examples provided in the guidelines include dates, dried meat (abon), long-lasting fruits, and boiled eggs.
Previously, a video circulated showing the head of SMAN 2 Pamekasan rejecting the MBG menu. The menu delivered by the local nutrition service unit contained tofu, tempeh, and marinated catfish.
Separately, Deputy Head of BGN Nanik Sudaryati Deyang made a different statement. Nanik said the menu was actually distributed to be taken home and cooked at home. “It’s to be taken home, fried at home,” said Nanik.
Nanik said the circulating video only showed part of the menu, creating an incomplete perception of the food prepared by the Pamekasan Pademawu Buddagan SPPG.
Based on field reports, Nanik said, the food package prepared by the SPPG actually consisted of several menu components: marinated catfish, cooked tofu and tempeh, pizza bread, boiled eggs, full cream milk, and dragon fruit.
“Based on the report we received, the menu prepared by the SPPG was actually complete. However, in the circulating video, only part of the menu is visible because the school rejected removing the food package from the distribution vehicle,” said Nanik.