Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has called for a child-friendly approach in the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program.“The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) and the Nutritional Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) must adopt a child-friendly approach, rather than relying on instructions involving security personnel,” KPAI Deputy Chairperson Jasra Putra said in Jakarta on Tuesday.
He made the statement in response to reports from an SPPG head in Banyuwangi, who struggled to increase the number of MBG recipients in their district, with some elite schools reportedly refusing the program.
“Dynamics on the ground, such as refusal from schools or children, should be addressed through psychological and medical perspectives rather than simple bureaucratic commands,” he stated.
KPAI also recommended that the BGN and SPPGs maintain a database of medical records regarding the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for every child receiving the meals.
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This is deemed essential to ensure the program does not become a one-size-fits-all initiative, but is instead tailored to the specific health conditions of each child.
He noted that this precision is vital amid the current child health issue trends that are becoming increasingly concerning.
Data from the Indonesian Pediatric Society (IDAI) showed that 15-20 percent of school-age children have symptoms of gastritis or acute gastric issues.
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He further highlighted the rising trend of hypertension, diabetes, and obesity among young children, driven by the excessive consumption of sugar, salt, and fat in processed foods.
“If we maintain nutritional records from early childhood through university, the MBG program will become a vital instrument in saving this generation. We would be able to detect malnutrition, obesity, and even conditions like thyroid disorders or anemia at an early stage,” he remarked.
