President Prabowo Subianto Defends Program Amidst Food Poisoning Incidents
Indonesia’s flagship Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program faces scrutiny following a mass food poisoning incident affecting over 300 students in Bandung. President Prabowo Subianto maintains the program’s success, citing a low percentage of adverse cases.
On April 29, 2025, 342 students from SMP Negeri 35 in Bandung experienced symptoms of food poisoning, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, after consuming meals provided by the government’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program. The local health department promptly investigated, collecting food samples to determine the cause.
This incident is not isolated; similar cases have been reported in other regions, raising concerns about the program’s food safety protocols. In response, the Bandung Health Department temporarily suspended the MBG meal distribution at the affected school pending further investigation.
Prabowo: Program Still 99.99% Successful
President Prabowo Subianto addressed the issue, stating that out of over 3 million beneficiaries, fewer than 200 have reported adverse effects, equating to approximately 0.005%. He emphasized that only five individuals required hospitalization, asserting the program’s overall success rate of 99.99%.
However, critics argue that framing success in percentages overlooks the real human impact on affected children and families. Public health experts and watchdog groups have questioned the readiness and hygiene standards of food providers involved, especially given recurring cases in multiple regions. They also highlight the lack of transparency in procurement processes and the need for better ground-level oversight.
Despite his confidence in the program’s effectiveness, Prabowo acknowledged the public’s concerns and reaffirmed his support for zero-accident targets. He expressed appreciation for BGN’s commitment to stronger supervision and procedural tightening.
International Spotlight: Bill Gates to Support MBG
In a show of international support, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates visited Jakarta on May 7, 2025, to discuss health and sustainable development initiatives with President Prabowo. Their agenda included discussions on the MBG program, highlighting its role in combating child malnutrition in Indonesia.
President Prabowo affirmed that Gates’ interest validates the long-term vision of MBG as an investment in national human capital. The program, targeting 82.9 million beneficiaries by December 2025, currently receives IDR 71 trillion (approx. S$5.54 billion), with a planned addition of IDR 100 trillion.
BGN Accelerates Nutrition Officer Training
To support operational expansion, BGN has partnered with the Defense University (Unhan) to train 30,000 new Heads of Nutritional Fulfillment Units (SPPGs). Around 2,000 trainees have graduated so far, and the rest are expected to complete their education by July 2025.
BGN also acknowledges the lack of SPPG facilities as a current bottleneck. Strengthening public-private partnerships and expanding infrastructure remain top priorities to ensure food quality, safety, and delivery speed across Indonesia’s archipelagic geography.
The MBG program’s recent health incidents highlight the complex logistics of nationwide nutrition distribution. While the program remains largely effective, continued public trust hinges on the government’s ability to tighten quality control and respond transparently. The collaboration with global health figures like Bill Gates signals a serious commitment to long-term success.
Sources: Tempo (2025), Detik News (2025), Tempo (2025)
Keywords: Free Nutritious Meals, MBG Program, Bandung Food Poisoning, Prabowo Subianto, Indonesia Health
