Vice President Gibran Visits Students Affected by Free Nutritious Meal Poisoning in Karo, Apologises on Behalf of Government

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka visited students who were victims of food poisoning from the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme in Karo Regency, North Sumatra, on Friday, 11 September 2026.

The Vice President visited the victims currently receiving treatment at Efarina Etaham Hospital and Amanda General Hospital.

During the visit, Gibran emphasised that children’s health is a critical priority that must be addressed to ensure they can return to their normal activities.

“I am here; I arrived from Kalimantan late last night because I am acutely aware that children’s health is very important,” Gibran stated in a written statement, quoted on Saturday, 12 September 2026.

The Vice President ensured that the children affected by the MBG poisoning are receiving maximum medical care.

“I will strive my utmost to ensure that the treatment for these children is maximised so that they can fully recover,” he said.

Gibran continued by noting that the implementation of the MBG programme is currently being evaluated by the government, specifically by the National Nutrition Agency (BGN). He stated that public feedback is essential for improving the governance of the MBG programme.

“This is being evaluated by the Head of the BGN. However, all complaints and input from the public will be conveyed to the highest leadership for further follow-up,” he remarked.

Furthermore, Vice President Gibran offered his apologies to the victims’ families regarding the MBG poisoning incident.

“On behalf of the government, I offer my deepest apologies,” Gibran concluded.