The Free Nutritious Meal Program (Makan Bergizi Gratis/MBG) in Papua, Indonesia continues to demonstrate positive progress as part of the government’s commitment to improving public nutrition and overall quality of life. As of early January 2026, the program has reached approximately 7,000 beneficiaries, supported by 179 Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) operating across various regions in Papua.

Head of the Jayapura Nutrition Fulfillment Service Office (KPPG), Djimmy Yomaiwi Douw, explained that the majority of beneficiaries currently come from early childhood to junior high school students. This focus reflects the government’s strategic emphasis on strengthening the health and development of Papua’s younger generation from an early age.

The MBG program is implemented through an inclusive approach that also prioritizes vulnerable groups. In collaboration with multiple stakeholders, including the Ministry of Population and Family Development, the government ensures that nutritious food distribution reaches pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers. This integrated effort plays a key role in the national strategy to reduce stunting rates in Papua.

The government remains optimistic that the target for stunting reduction by 2030 can be achieved through the consistent and sustainable implementation of the MBG program. President Prabowo Subianto has set an ambitious target for Papua to reach 25,000 beneficiaries by August 2026, underscoring the government’s commitment to accelerating human development in the region.

To achieve this goal, the program is delivered through three main distribution channels: agglomeration areas, 3T regions (underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost areas), and a special distribution pathway. For 3T regions and the special pathway, funding is directly allocated through the State Budget (APBN), enabling faster and more effective implementation.

While some administrative requirements among partner SPPG units are still being finalized, the government emphasizes that overall program implementation has been running well and continues to improve. Ongoing efforts to complete hygiene, food safety, and halal certifications are expected to further enhance service quality.

Overall, the Free Nutritious Meal Program is more than a nutrition initiative—it represents the government’s tangible presence in building a healthier, stronger, and more competitive future for Papua, Indonesia by investing in the well-being of its people from an early stage.