Beneficiary safety is priority in free meals program: Deputy Minister

Jakarta (ANTARA) – Deputy Human Rights Minister Mugiyanto stressed that the safety and security of beneficiaries must be prioritized in the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program.

“Under human rights principles, students receiving MBG are beneficiaries of a state policy, so the principles of safety and security in implementing the MBG program must be taken into account,” Mugiyanto said in a statement here on Friday.

While monitoring the implementation of MBG at SMAN 04 Manado public high school in North Sulawesi on the same day, he held a dialogue with students to gather input on the program’s implementation and food distribution.

Several students raised concerns about the gap between when meals arrive at school and when they are served, as well as the lack of variety in the menu.

“That’s good. Together with the head of the education office, the head of the food security office, and the head of the local Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG), we heard directly what these students wanted,” he said.

Mugiyanto said input from beneficiaries is important for evaluating and improving the implementation of the MBG program.

According to him, MBG is one of the President’s priority programs and represents the government’s responsibility to fulfill public rights, including the right to food.

“When the government is implementing the MBG program, it means the state is carrying out its responsibility,” he said.

Mugiyanto said the Human Rights Ministry will continue monitoring and overseeing the program to ensure that human rights principles are upheld in its implementation, including with regard to the safety and security of beneficiaries.

The visit to Manado was also aimed at increasing understanding, awareness, and concern about human rights, as well as fostering a culture of respect for human rights in schools.