Biak, Indonesia – The Indigenous Deliberation Council (LMA) of Biak Numfor, Papua, has expressed its full support for the government’s Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program, which aims to improve the nutritional intake of school children.
As a representative of the indigenous community, LMA Biak Chairman David Rumansara emphasized the importance of the MBG initiative, which aligns with President Prabowo’s Astacita policy, in ensuring that students receive adequate nutrition.
“The trial implementation of MBG by the 1708/BN Military Command in several schools has been well received. The students are happy to receive nutritious meals provided by the military,” Rumansara stated in Biak on Friday.
He also encouraged parents and the indigenous community in Biak Numfor to support the program, assuring them that there is no reason to be concerned about the meals provided for school children.
“This initiative ensures that indigenous Papuan children receive nutritious food, helping them grow healthier, smarter, and free from stunting,” he added.
As a concrete step in supporting the MBG program, LMA Biak continues to educate the public on the importance of proper nutrition for children.
According to Rumansara, one of the most significant impacts of the program is the increase in student attendance.
“Providing free meals at school has significantly improved student attendance,” he noted.
Beyond improving cognitive development, he highlighted that nutritious meals also help prevent various diseases among children.
The MBG program in Biak Numfor is set to benefit approximately 43,000 students across different educational institutions.
