Hendrik Yaputra, Jakarta – The Indonesian government showcased the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program as part of additional activities during the 61st Session of the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland, on Thursday, March 12, 2026.
The Director General of Human Rights Services and Compliance, Munafrizal Manan, stated that the MBG had reached approximately 61.6 million beneficiaries by March 2026. "This includes school children, toddlers, as well as pregnant and lactating mothers through more than 24,000 service facilities across Indonesia," Manan mentioned in an official statement.
Manan conveyed this at a side event organized by the Indonesian government titled 'Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meal Program: A Rights-Based Investment in Human Dignity' in Geneva, Switzerland, on Thursday, March 12, 2026.
He mentioned that the MBG aims to improve the nutritional status of the current and future generations, as well as support participation and the quality of learning in schools. The program is expected to contribute to long-term economic development by creating a healthier and more productive generation.
He claimed that the MBG has an economic impact by creating more than one million jobs and involving around 35,000 food suppliers, including cooperatives and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in various regions.
According to him, the MBG has significant dimensions in advancing human rights, especially related to the fulfillment of the right to food, health, education, social security, and decent living standards.
This side event also featured several international panelists, including representatives from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Food Programme (WFP), as well as permanent representatives of France, Cuba, and Finland to the UN in Geneva.
The event was attended by representatives from various countries and civil society organizations who participated in discussions on strengthening the right to food as part of inclusive and sustainable development.
Source: https://en.tempo.co/read/2092848/indonesia-promotes-free-meal-program-at-un-rights-counci