Indonesian authorities are investigating a series of food poisoning cases that have affected nearly 700 children in Yogyakarta province, where meals provided under President Prabowo Subianto’s free school meal program are implicated. This initiative, launched in January as part of Prabowo’s election campaign, has resulted in about 15,000 reported illnesses among children up to late October, as stated by the local non-governmental organization JPPI.
Regional head Endah Subekti Kuntariningsih confirmed that around 660 students from two schools became ill after consuming the meals. Early investigations suggest that improper food storage and delays in meal delivery are to blame for the health issues. In light of these alarming reports, JPPI has urged a suspension of the school meal program until food safety measures can be thoroughly reassessed and implemented.
Dadan Hindayana, the head of the national nutrition agency (BGN), mentioned that officials are probing the incidents in Gunungkidul and have temporarily halted operations at adjacent meal preparation facilities to investigate further and prevent additional cases.
This disturbing situation raises significant concerns regarding food safety standards in Indonesia, especially for vulnerable groups like children. It emphasizes the critical need for strict oversight and compliance with food safety regulations to rebuild public confidence and ensure the well-being of young students. As investigations progress, there remains hope that the outcome will prompt improvements in food safety practices, ensuring that children have access to healthy and safe nutritious meals in the future.