Indonesia's Makan Bergizi Gratis program faces food poisoning reports

The Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) program in Indonesia is facing various regional challenges, including reports of food poisoning and administrative concerns. In Pati, Central Java, laboratory tests confirmed that food samples from schools, specifically fried rice and tempeh, tested positive for bacteria including Escherichia coli (E. coli), Bacillus Sp, and Bacillus cereus. Health officials noted that E. coli may have originated from water contamination, while Staphylococcus aureus found in student feces likely came from food handlers.

In Jember, East Java, 28 students at MI Al Islah reportedly suffered mass poisoning, suspected to be linked to soy milk distributed as part of the MBG menu. Local police are investigating the incident, noting a delay in the delivery of the milk component.

Administratively, officials in Malang have stated that there are no official reports of schools halting the program, despite rumors. In Yahukimo, the Education Office clarified that public schools remain free and that the MBG program is not mandatory for students whose parents object. Meanwhile, community leaders have called for better governance of the program's kitchen distribution points to ensure they effectively reach the most economically disadvantaged beneficiaries.