Papuaaround.com – On Monday, January 20, 2025, the Commander of the Joint Regional Defense Command (Kogabwilhan) III, Lieutenant General Bambang Trisnohadi, personally supervised the distribution of free nutritious meals (MBG) in Sugapa District, Intan Jaya Regency, Central Papua. This area marks the first location where the Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Defense, has implemented the MBG program.
Accompanied by his team, Lt. Gen. Bambang Trisnohadi departed from Mimika Regency at 07:00 WIT, traveling by Caracal helicopter to Intan Jaya. Upon arrival, he directly inspected the field kitchen where various MBG meals are prepared by Indonesian National Army (TNI) personnel. The food, which serves local children and pregnant women, is made with careful attention to nutritional standards.
Head Chef Letda Hengky explained that all ingredients, sourced from Mimika Regency, are delivered by helicopter. “We receive food supplies once a week for approximately 1,000 students and expectant mothers. After cooking, the meals are placed in holding areas before being distributed to the schools. All meals are checked by nutrition experts from the Health Department,” Hengky said.
The menu for the free nutritious meals program follows a structured weekly schedule, with food served from Monday to Friday. “We do not cook on weekends. Today’s meal consists of white rice, crispy chicken, and a stir-fried long bean and cabbage vegetable dish,” Hengky added.
Following his visit to the kitchen, Lt. Gen. Bambang Trisnohadi observed the meal distribution at local schools, including those for preschool, elementary, and junior high school students. The students appeared eager, eagerly lining up and consuming their meals enthusiastically.
“This free nutritious food program is part of the Ministry of Defense’s support for communities in Intan Jaya, which is still considered a vulnerable area. Therefore, the TNI is continuing to manage the program here. We are providing 1,000 portions of food across three schools, including for pregnant and breastfeeding women,” said Lt. Gen. Bambang.
He also emphasized the importance of meeting food safety and hygiene standards. “While we are still in the early stages, the cooking process and meal quality are closely monitored. Hygiene standards are essential, as this program will continue regularly,” he concluded.
The free nutritious meals initiative reflects the Indonesian government’s commitment to improving nutrition in remote regions, particularly those in the midst of challenges. The Ministry of Defense’s involvement ensures that this program reaches its target communities effectively and with ongoing support from the Indonesian National Army.
