JAYAPURA – The Papua Provincial Government has expressed its readiness to make the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program a success. This effort will be carried out by prioritizing food self-sufficiency based on local wisdom and regional characteristics.

"We are ready to synchronize and help the MBG program. Anyway, we are ready to back up the government's priority," said the Acting Governor of Papua, Ramses Limbong.

He said that the Papua Provincial Government has prepared a food self-sufficiency strategy that is adjusted to the geographical and demographic conditions of each region, such as Jayapura, Keerom, and Sarmi, including in the marine sector.

This effort has been communicated directly with the central government, including in a meeting with the National Nutrition Agency and the Minister of Home Affairs. In the meeting, his party conveyed that the real conditions in Papua are different from Java, both in terms of demographics and the price of basic materials.

"Prices in Papua are not the same as outside Papua. For example, the MBG pilot project in Sentani has a price per portion of IDR 30,000, while in Yapen it is almost IDR 40,000," said Governor Ramses.

To make this program a success, the local government will utilize local wisdom by involving MSMEs and local community organizations. "So later, the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) will also collaborate with them so that the program runs well," he said.  ***