Jayapura, Jubi — The Indonesian government is seeking to expand the reach of its Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program in Papua, aiming to serve more communities across the region. The program currently operates at around 70 service points.

Ribka Haluk announced the plan during a presentation at the 2027 Regional Development Planning Forum (Musrenbang RKPD) and Papua Special Autonomy discussion, held virtually from Jakarta on Thursday (April 30, 2026).

“For Papua, it has reached around 70 locations providing free meals through several SPPG units,” Haluk said.

Despite the limited coverage, the government expects a significant increase in the near future, following discussions with the president.

“Hopefully, based on our meeting with the President, the number will reach more than one thousand,” she added.

The MBG program is regarded as a key initiative to improve child nutrition, particularly in areas with limited access to healthy food.

“We have reached several regions in Papua, and schoolchildren are already benefiting from the free nutritious meal program,” she said.

Haluk also called on regional governments to support efforts to accelerate implementation.

“Since the Governor is present, we need to continue pushing this forward—this is still only at 70 service points,” she said.

In addition to improving children’s health, the program is expected to support local economies through the procurement of food supplies from communities.

The government hopes stronger coordination between central and regional authorities will accelerate expansion, allowing the program to reach more beneficiaries across Papua. (*)