Jakarta. The Indonesian government said it will continue its Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program despite a surge in food poisoning cases that have sickened thousands of schoolchildren across the country.

Chief Community Empowerment Minister Muhaimin "Cak Imin" Iskandar ruled out halting the initiative. “There is no plan for suspension. I haven’t heard of any,” Muhaimin told reporters on Thursday.

Deputy State Secretary Juri Ardiantoro told reporters that the program remains a priority for President Prabowo Subianto, though the government is stepping up monitoring and evaluation to prevent further outbreaks.

“Problems that have arisen will be addressed immediately, evaluated, and resolved," Juri said at the State Secretariat office in Jakarta. 

Juri acknowledged calls from some community groups for a temporary moratorium, but said halting the initiative is not under consideration. “Public input is positive for the government, but suspending the program is not the step we will take,” he said.

President Prabowo has instructed the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to investigate the recent cases and tighten oversight of food service providers. The program, launched earlier this year, aims to improve child nutrition and strengthen food security nationwide.

Food safety has become the program’s most pressing issue. By Sept. 22, between 4,711 and 5,360 cases of foodborne illness had been reported by different agencies, including symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. 

BGN this week reopened registration for its food service partners (SPPG) after nearly a month-long suspension. The pause allowed officials to verify applicants’ compliance with safety standards.

Of 1,379 providers assessed, only 312 fully met food safety protocols, according to the Presidential Staff Office. Just 34 of 8,583 providers nationwide had secured official hygiene and sanitation certification from the Health Ministry. Many of the outbreaks occurred at newly established kitchens or older ones that recently changed suppliers.

Despite these setbacks, the government is pressing ahead with expansion. The program has already disbursed Rp 13 trillion ($800 million) this year, reaching 22.7 million beneficiaries. Authorities expect to cover 82.9 million Indonesians by the end of 2025, underscoring the initiative’s role in tackling malnutrition and supporting national food security.