Indonesian minister links MBG program to human rights fulfillment

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai said the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program helps fulfill basic rights while supporting efforts to accelerate stunting reduction in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT).

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Pigai said ensuring access to food is part of the state's obligation to protect human rights.

"From a human rights perspective, the government has three key responsibilities: respecting, protecting, and fulfilling the fundamental rights of people, including their needs for clothing, food, and housing," he said.

Speaking at a forum on the nutritional rights of pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, children under five, and students in Kupang, NTT, on Tuesday, Pigai said the MBG program was designed not merely as social assistance but as a tool to improve human resources through better nutrition from an early age.

He said the Ministry of Human Rights is committed to overseeing the program's implementation to ensure it remains on target and adheres to the principles of social justice.

"The Free Nutritious Meals program is a good and noble initiative. We are monitoring this program so that it achieves its objectives, delivers tangible benefits to society, and contributes to poverty and stunting reduction," he said.

Meanwhile, NTT Governor Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena said the program not only improves community nutrition but also contributes to regional economic growth through the involvement of local businesses.

"Economic growth in NTT is showing a positive trend, and one of the driving factors is the economic activity generated by the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals program," he said.

According to the governor, the program has benefited various sectors, including farmers, fishermen, livestock breeders, food MSMEs, as well as distribution and transportation services.

He added that the provincial government is encouraging greater use of locally sourced ingredients in the program to maximize its economic impact on communities.

Through synergy between the central and regional governments, the program is expected to help reduce stunting, improve public health, and support the development of a more competitive workforce.

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Translator: Devi Nindy, Tegar Nurfitra

Editor: Anton Santoso

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