Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) Program Launched in Gurah Kediri, The Regional House of Representatives of the Province of East Java Targets Zero Stunting

The Jamaah Maju Nyawangan Kras Foundation, located in Gurah District, Kediri Regency, has now been officially designated as a Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) by the National Nutrition Agency.

As a follow-up, on Wednesday (8/27/2025), a socialization and MoU Signing Ceremony for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) Program was held between SPPG Wonojoyo and prospective beneficiary schools at the Gurah Subdistrict Hall.

Two SPPGs have signed the MoUs, which are the SPPG serving 24 institutions and the other serving 27 institutions.

Khusnul Arif, a member of Commission D of the Regional House of Representatives of the Province of East Java from the NasDem Party Faction, emphasized that this program is not merely about distributing healthy meals, but rather a part of a larger strategy to improve the quality of human resources in East Java.

"Healthy children will grow optimally, have strong immune systems, be more enthusiastic in learning, and achieve better academic performance. We are promoting the MBG program as a concrete solution to address stunting while also improving the quality of education," he said.

The data shows that the stunting rate in East Java remains relatively high compared to the national average.

Many children in rural areas face limited access to nutritious food, which directly impacts their growth and development, immune system, and learning ability.

The MBG program comes with three main missions, one of which is improving nutritional status.

According to the Deputy Chairperson of Commission D, it is important to ensure that school children receive healthy and nutritious food.

Furthermore, Arif added, the program also provides nutrition education. It is providing education about healthy eating habits for students and parents. As well as learning motivation and ensuring sufficient energy intake for children to remain focused and eager to study.

Arif explained that the MBG program includes providing balanced menus with protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Nutrition education is carried out through school counseling session, seminars for parents, and distribution of educational materials.

The impact is expected to prevent stunting, reduce anemia prevalence, and improve children's memory, concentration, and learning motivation.

“If their nutritional needs are met, children will not get sick easily, they will be able to focus better in class, and of course their academic performance will improve,” explained the man who is also an arts and culture activist from Kediri."

Even so, Arif said, major challenges remain from limited distribution of nutritious food in remote areas, families’ economic conditions, and to the lack of parental understanding about the importance of a balanced diet.

Therefore, this program encourages synergy between the government, communities, and private sector in ensuring the sustainable provision of healthy meals for children.

Our hope is, the MBG Program will help create a a healthy, intelligent, and competitive golden generation of East Java," he concluded.