Free Nutritious Meal program to prioritize inclusivity, solidarity

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program underscores the significance of inclusion and solidarity, Presidential Communication Office (PCO) Spokesperson Philips Vermonte stated.

Vermonte shared this insight while reviewing the program's implementation at SLB Negeri 5, a special school, here on Tuesday.

"Here, at the SLB Negeri 5 in Slipi Village, we can see the commitment of the Free Nutritious Meal Program to the principle of inclusion," he affirmed.

He emphasized that all students, including those with special needs, can equally benefit from the program, irrespective of their economic status or requirements.

He explained that the MBG program goes beyond fulfilling nutritional needs, as it also fosters the values of solidarity and inclusion.

"President Prabowo Subianto had stated that the MBG Program is about more than just (providing) meals, as it incorporates elements of inclusion and solidarity for beneficiaries," Vermonte elaborated.

To ensure beneficiaries' nutritional needs are met, the government has established the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG), which evaluate the MBG menus every 20 days. This approach allows students to experience a variety of Indonesian dishes.

"The menu is changed regularly so that students understand that Indonesian food (culture) is diverse. Along with the inclusion and solidarity components, there are other aspects like a joint prayer," Vermonte remarked.

He clarified that the MBG program's implementation is not solely about meal time but also serves as a cultural event that introduces students to diverse cuisines.

Vermonte inspected the implementation of the MBG program at SLB Negeri 5 in Slipi, West Jakarta, alongside Deputy Minister of Trade Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri.

The menu this time featured rice, chicken, tofu, morning glory as vegetable, and orange.