Indonesia Expands Nutrition Expertise Criteria for Free Meal Program

Addressing Nutrition Professional Shortage

The Indonesian government has announced a strategic expansion of eligibility criteria for nutrition experts in its ambitious Free Meal Program (Makan Bergizi Gratis/MBG). Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan revealed that the program will now consider candidates from related academic backgrounds when dedicated nutrition/dietetics positions remain unfilled due to the current shortage of qualified professionals.

Rationale Behind the Policy Shift

The decision comes as the government faces challenges in meeting the program's demand for qualified nutrition experts. The current scarcity of these professionals has necessitated a more flexible approach to staffing the Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG) or nutrition fulfillment units that support the MBG initiative.

Expanded Eligibility Criteria

Under the new guidelines, while dietetics and nutrition graduates remain the primary candidates, individuals from related fields such as public health and food science will now be considered for nutrition roles. Minister Hasan emphasized that graduates from these complementary disciplines possess relevant knowledge about nutrition that can be effectively utilized in the program.

Implementation Context

This policy adjustment was discussed during a Limited Coordination Meeting about the governance of the MBG program held at the Coordinating Ministry for Food Affairs office in Jakarta. The meeting highlighted the government's commitment to ensuring the program's success despite the current shortage of specialized nutrition professionals.

Program Background

The Makan Bergizi Gratis initiative represents a significant national effort to improve nutrition standards across Indonesia. By expanding the pool of eligible candidates for nutrition roles, the government aims to maintain the program's quality and effectiveness while addressing current staffing challenges.