Indonesia’s Minister of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection (PPPA), Arifah Fauzi, has affirmed that the free nutritious meal program (MBG) is a right for all children and should not be withheld as a form of punishment or intimidation, following reports of students being denied the benefit due to parental criticism of the program.
Protecting Children’s Right to Nutrition
Arifah stated that MBG is a fundamental right of every child, guaranteed by Law Number 35 of 2014 concerning Child Protection, and should not be revoked under any circumstances. “Every child has the right to adequate nutrition and health without discrimination,” she said in a written statement on Sunday, January 25, 2026.
The minister emphasized that terminating MBG services as retribution for parental criticism is both ethically and legally unjustifiable. She clarified that the program is designed to improve child welfare and development, not to serve as a disciplinary tool.
Arifah stressed the importance of schools as safe and inclusive environments that prioritize children’s well-being. Denying a child MBG while their peers receive it, she warned, could lead to significant psychological harm.
“This can be categorized as psychological abuse, causing shame, trauma, and a form of intimidation or covert bullying,” Arifah said.
Adherence to Child-Friendly School Principles
Such actions, according to Arifah, contradict the principles of Child-Friendly Schools as outlined in Ministerial Regulation No. 8 of 2014 on Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection. This regulation mandates a child-friendly approach from all involved in the education ecosystem, including MBG providers.
Arifah also acknowledged the value of public feedback, including criticism from parents, as a crucial component of public service evaluation. “Criticism should be addressed constructively, not met with repressive actions that target children,” she stated.
The Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection will coordinate with local offices and school administrations through the Women and Children’s Friendly Service Team (SAPA) 129 to ensure the rights of affected children are protected, provide psychological support if needed, and review sanction policies to prevent future occurrences.
Arifah urged all educational units and MBG administrators to prioritize the best interests of children in the implementation of all government programs.
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