Government to Implement Persuasive Approach Following Rejections of MBG Program in Papua
Jakarta: The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, announced the government’s efforts to address the rejections among students regarding the Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG) in Papua. In order to enhance understanding of the importance of good nutrition for the younger generation, the agency will prioritize a persuasive approach.
“We will employ a persuasive strategy to explain the benefits of this program for the health of future generations,” Dadan stated at Lanud Halim Perdanakusuma in East Jakarta on Friday, February 28, 2025.
Dadan acknowledged the existing rejections within the community, which he attributed to a lack of information about the MBG program. He emphasized the significance of effective and collaborative outreach with local governments to convey the message about the importance of proper nutrition.
“Moving forward, we will collaborate with local governments to provide education on balanced nutrition to students,” he added.
Despite the rejections, Dadan assured that his agency would not force students who do not wish to participate in the program. He emphasized that respecting individuals’ rights to refuse is a principle that must be upheld.
“If there are students who do not wish to participate, we will not impose it on them. That is their right, and we respect their decision,” Dadan asserted.
Through a more communicative approach, BGN hopes that the MBG program can be well-received and provide significant benefits for the health of children in Papua.
