Indonesia: Food poisoning incident in Rembang and earthquake relief in NTT

In Rembang, Central Java, 752 students and 25 teachers at SMAN 1 Lasem reportedly suffered health issues, including nausea, vomiting, and dizziness, after consuming meals from the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program. The SPPG Soditan Lasem service provider has claimed full responsibility for the incident and committed to covering all medical expenses for those affected, whether treated at health centers or at home.

Achmad Sholeh Syarifudin, head of SPPG Soditan, issued an apology and stated that the provider is conducting a thorough evaluation of its operational systems, including raw material selection and distribution processes. Local authorities, including the Rembang Health Office and police, have been involved in monitoring the victims.

Separately, in Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT), the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has dispatched 50 emergency classroom tents to support schools damaged by the major earthquake on August 15. The earthquake impacted 253 educational institutions across seven regencies on Flores Island. Minister Abdul Mu'ti emphasized that ensuring the safety of the school community remains the top priority as assessments continue.