Thekabarnews.com—BGN in West Kalimantan has temporarily suspended seven businesses that were part of the nutrition fulfillment service units (SPPG). Officials worried that the program served substandard food and faced possible financial irregularities.

As part of an assessment of the free meals program (MBG), which attempts to get students across the country to eat healthier foods, the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) ordered the closures. Therefore, these actions were not arbitrary.

The decision drew public attention after reports emerged that some kitchens had served meals that were too small or below acceptable standard. Additionally, authorities accused some operators of inflating food prices.

Usmandy, a legislator in the West Kalimantan Regional Legislative Council, expressed support for the decision. He proposed taking aggressive action to prevent anyone from exploiting the program for personal gain.

“This program is an investment in the future to make our children’s meals better. Authorities must manage the program properly, ensure transparency, and never compromise the quality of the meals,” Usmandy stated, Saturday, March 14.

Usmandy remarked that the MBG program, which helps people, especially school-age youngsters, eat better, is one of Prabowo Subianto’s most essential programs. This importance cannot be overstated.

He noted that officials need to deal with any issues that arise, such as problems with the budget or the food quality.

“Those who break the rules must be penalized,” he said next.

BGN temporarily closed several SPPG facilities in different locations. Some of these places are Sandai in Ketapang Regency, Rasau Jaya, Sungai Kakap, and Arang Limbung in Kubu Raya Regency. BGN also includes Teluk Batang in Kayong Utara Regency, Sejangkung Semanga in Sambas Regency, and Nanga Pinoh in Melawi Regency.

BGN claimed the closures had to take place because inspections identified several issues. During Ramadan, several chefs did not follow the regulations and served food that was not up to the program’s standards.

Some businesses had problems managing their employees or running their SPPG on a daily basis. For instance, the SPPG at Arang Limbung did not have the necessary equipment. Additionally, the Sejangkung Semanga facility had a land dispute with the local village council.

But when officials learned that the cost of manufacturing food for the menu was rising up, they shut down the Nanga Pinoh kitchen.

According to West Kalimantan MBG Regional Head Agus Kurniawi, the constraints are just temporary and are part of a larger assessment process.

“Authorities must evaluate the program if operators fail to meet the technical standards,” Agus said. He emphasized that the closures will continue until the operators comply with all requirements.

BGN thinks that enhanced oversight and compliance will make sure that the MBG program keeps helping students. It will also keep high standards for food safety and openness.