Student Dismissed From Bima Early Childhood Centre Following Mother's Social Media Critique of Free Nutritious Meal Programme

A controversy over Indonesia’s free nutritious meal (MBG) programme has culminated in the expulsion of a student from an early childhood education centre in Bima Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. Muhammad Adzan was dismissed from PAUD SPS Bintang Alfa after his mother, Linda Purnama Sari, posted questions about MBG distribution on social media.

The Tunas Perjuangan Anak Negeri Foundation, which oversees PAUD SPS Bintang Alfa in Dusun Tololara, Madawau Village, Madapangga District, confirmed the expulsion of Adzan. Foundation Chairman Arifudin stated that the dismissal was made at the request of a parent, based on the child’s age not meeting enrolment requirements.

“The decision was not unilateral from the school, but resulted from communication with the guardian and adherence to applicable administrative procedures,” Arifudin told detikBali on Monday, 2 March 2026.

However, Arifudin disclosed that the school had repeatedly warned the guardian about social media posts deemed insulting to teachers and the school. The school had summoned the parent, but they did not attend.

“The school called the guardian multiple times, but they refused to attend. They frequently criticise teachers through social media,” he said.

Regarding the MBG programme, Arifudin affirmed that implementation continues in accordance with established guidelines. All registered students receive their entitlements, and for absent students, MBG packages are delivered to their homes by the school.

“Students who don’t come to school receive their MBG packages delivered home by the school,” he emphasised.

The foundation stated its commitment to implementing educational and government programmes transparently and fairly, and remains open to clarification. “For us, the best interests of children are always our primary concern,” Arifudin added.

Muhammad Adzan’s dismissal from PAUD SPS Bintang Alfa took effect on 26 February 2026, as documented in a letter issued by the foundation. His mother Linda confirmed the expulsion, noting that her son could no longer attend school from the previous Thursday.

Linda suspected the dismissal was connected to her Facebook post questioning the distribution of MBG packages to students who did not attend school. She stated she simply asked where meal packages not distributed to absent students were intended to go.

Linda emphasised that her post was general in nature and did not mention any specific school, including PAUD SPS Bintang Alfa. “I did not target any school or early childhood centre. But after I posted about MBG, I received a letter dismissing my child from the PAUD,” she said.