The Free Nutritious Meals Program (MBG) is increasingly positioned not merely as a social intervention but as a strategic instrument for improving nutritional status and public health. Through the “Goes to Campus” activity initiated by the National Nutrition Agency, universities are being encouraged to become centers of study, innovation, and science-based implementation to refine the program.
The event was held at the Hasanuddin University (Unhas) Tamalanrea Campus on Tuesday, 5 April 2026.
In a presentation, Dr. Gunalan, AP., M.Si., Acting Deputy for Promotion and Cooperation at the National Nutrition Agency, stated that the event aims to improve the academic community’s understanding of MBG policy and implementation. In addition, academic input is considered crucial to ensure the effectiveness of a program that continues to be refined based on data and field evaluation results.
“MBG is not a static program. It is continually improved through evidence-based policy. The role of universities is very important in providing scientific perspectives and innovative solutions,” Gunalan said.
Nutrition education is not aimed only at individuals but is also being extended to the family level. The public is given an understanding of recommended dietary allowances, balanced portion composition, and the importance of healthy eating patterns to support a better quality of life.
Unhas Rector Prof. JJ emphasized that MBG is an interdisciplinary program involving all faculties, not just the domain of one particular field. The Rector expressed regret if universities were to remain mere spectators without making real contributions.
“This is a very meaningful program. It would be a great pity if the campus only watched without offering ideas and concrete examples. MBG must become a shared movement,” the Rector stressed.
The interdisciplinary approach is the main strength. The Faculty of Public Health (FKM) serves as guardian of the health aspects, while other faculties contribute according to their respective fields of expertise. Unhas has even developed food production capacity, such as producing quality chickens as part of the ecosystem supporting the program.
In the fisheries sector, the Faculty of Marine Science and Fisheries (FIKP) is also introducing fish processing innovations that are not only high in nutritional value but also suited to the preferences of the younger generation.
“This is a real laboratory for us. All processes, from upstream to downstream, can be tested and developed on campus,” the Rector added.
MBG also adopts a penta helix approach, which brings the government, academia, industry, community, and media together in one collaborative ecosystem. In this context, universities are an important node in strengthening human resources and developing scientific studies.
As a sign of commitment, Unhas is encouraging the formation of interdisciplinary study groups to strengthen the academic foundation of the MBG program. This step also opens space for developing constructive ideas to improve a policy that is a national strategic mandate.
Meanwhile, Nanik S. Deyang, Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency for Public Communication and Investigation, highlighted the role of universities as living laboratories for the implementation of MBG.
“This program is extraordinary because it involves all faculties. It is not just a nutrition intervention but a comprehensive ecosystem of development programs,” Nanik said.
Through synergy between the government and universities, MBG is expected to become not only an assistance program but also an engine of transformation driven by research and innovation. Campuses are no longer merely places of learning but centers for producing real solutions to national nutrition challenges.
Through an integrated scientific approach, MBG opens up great opportunities for Indonesia to build a healthier, more productive, and more competitive generation. (*/dhs)
Editor: Ishaq Rahman
This article is an English translation of the original Indonesian report.