Timika – Special Staff of the Indonesian Ministry of Defense, Lenis Kogoya, has responded to a statement made by the spokesperson of the Free Papua Organization (OPM), Sebby Sambom, who claimed that the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program contains toxic substances. Lenis denied the allegation and urged that no more misinformation, which he considers a hoax, be spread.
According to Lenis, the MBG program aims to improve the welfare of the Papuan people, particularly in fulfilling children’s nutritional needs. Therefore, he called on all parties to refrain from disrupting or spreading negative issues related to the program.
“There should be no issues such as poisoned food or genocide. That is not true. This program is for the well-being of the Papuan people, especially children,” said Lenis in Timika on Monday (10/3/2025).
Lenis also encouraged teachers to support the MBG program and ensure that the information circulating within schools remains positive and does not cause public anxiety.
In Timika, Lenis Kogoya, along with the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), also promoted the MBG program to teachers and school principals. He emphasized that the program is part of the government’s efforts to improve the welfare of the Papuan people.
Sebby Sambom had previously issued a written statement alleging that the food provided under the MBG program in conflict areas contained toxic substances and could potentially harm the health of Papuans in the long run. However, this claim has been denied by the government and various parties involved in implementing the program.
