KPAI Calls for Comprehensive Evaluation of Free nutritious Eating Program after Poisoning cases

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – Deputy Chairperson of the Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) Jasra Putra stated that a comprehensive evaluation of the Free Nutritious Eating Program (MBG) is essential. The recent cases of food poisoning affecting children across various regions due to the program are unacceptable.

The latest incident involves poisoning among students in Early Childhood Education Groups (PAUD).

“Protecting young children is fundamentally different than protecting adults. Furthermore, it’s often difficult for state policies to accurately assess conditions within individual families,” Jasra said in an official statement on Saturday, September 20, 2025.

Also read: Prevent Poisoning Cases Recurred, KSP Qodari Call the need for MBG evaluation

KPAI emphasizes the increasing number of food poisoning events. This necessitates a thorough evaluation by the government, including the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), wich organizes the program.

Key Takeaways

• The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) is demanding a comprehensive review of the Free Nutritious eating Program (MBG).
• Recent food poisoning cases among young children, including those in PAUD, have prompted this call for evaluation.
• KPAI highlights the difficulty of assessing family conditions when implementing national policies.
• The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is identified as a key entity responsible for conducting the evaluation.

Looking Ahead

The future of the MBG program hinges on a swift and thorough evaluation. A pause in implementation, as some have suggested, might potentially be necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of Indonesian children. The evaluation must address sourcing, planning, and distribution of food to prevent further incidents. Long-term success requires robust quality control measures and a system for addressing vulnerabilities within families to guarantee the program effectively reaches those most in need.