Mass poisoning victims in Jayapura’s MBG program sent home
The government is preparing changes to food processing and oversight to prevent a repeat of the incident.
Most students who were suspected victims of mass poisoning in the Free Nutritious Meals Program in Jayapura Regency have recovered and were discharged after treatment at RSUP Jayapura. Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Haluk inspected the handling of the victims with Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency Trenggono on Friday and said the response from community health centers, local governments, the TNI, Polri, churches, and community leaders was quick. The central government is also preparing an evaluation of MBG implementation, especially the food preparation process in kitchens and stronger hygiene oversight. Ribka said the steps are needed so a similar incident does not happen again in an area that is seen as greatly needing the program.