IDThe Ministry of Population and Family Development and the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) are coordinating policies to enhance the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program, which provides meals to pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children under five. Minister Wihaji emphasized that proper nutrition during early life stages is crucial for preventing stunting and that successful implementation requires collaboration between agencies, accurate data collection, and consideration of geographic challenges, especially in remote areas. He highlighted the need for better incentives and social protections for field workers involved in the program. BGN’s deputy head, Agustina Arumsari, noted the importance of standardized data sharing between agencies to improve program effectiveness. The MBG program targets 82.9 million beneficiaries nationwide and was launched in early 2025, though free meal deliveries are temporarily suspended during school holidays for review.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced overview of the government's initiative to improve maternal and child nutrition through the MBG program. It includes statements from both the Ministry of Population and Family Development and the BGN, emphasizing collaboration, data accuracy, and logistical challenges
