Over 1,000 Children Sickened in Alarming School Meal Outbreak

Mass Illness Among Indonesian Schoolchildren Sparks Outcry

In Indonesia, a widespread food poisoning incident has affected thousands of schoolchildren, prompting urgent calls to reconsider President Prabowo Subianto’s extensive free meal initiative. This program, designed to combat malnutrition, has come under scrutiny as the nation grapples with the health crisis.

Overwhelmed Hospitals and Emergency Responses

Television footage has shown hospitals inundated with young patients, many in visible distress. Emergency services, including ambulances and other vehicles, have been mobilized to transport affected children. Launched in January, the Free Nutritious Meal program aims to support nearly 90 million children and expectant mothers across the country.

Financial and Demographic Context

With a projected cost of £21 billion ($28 billion), this initiative fulfills a campaign promise by President Subianto. Indonesia, home to over 282 million people, stands as Southeast Asia’s largest economy.

Rising Numbers and Regional Impact

The National Nutrition Agency reported 1,376 food poisoning cases linked to schools from January to June. This week, the number surged to 4,711, with West Java being the most affected region, reporting over 1,000 cases.

Agency leader Dadan Hindayana stated that kitchens involved in these incidents have been temporarily closed. Local authorities have formed task forces comprising nutritionists and health professionals to oversee meal distribution.

Official Statements and Data

Hindayana noted, “Out of one billion meals served during the nine-month program, only 4,711 resulted in poisoning. Improvements are necessary.” Meanwhile, Muhammad Qodari from the Presidential Staff Office revealed that various government bodies have identified over 5,000 cases related to the school meal scheme.

The Ministry of Health documented 5,207 cases, while the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency reported 5,320. In West Java, Governor Dedi Mulyadi confirmed that 470 students fell ill in Bandung, with additional outbreaks in Sukabumi affecting 580 children.

Concerns and Calls for Action

Reports indicate that symptoms include breathing difficulties, nausea, dizziness, and severe abdominal pain. The Centre for Indonesia’s Strategic Development Initiatives warns that the reported figures might only represent a fraction of the actual cases. Diah Saminarsih, the organization’s CEO, emphasized the need to pause the program for health reasons.

The Indonesian Education Monitoring Network criticized the initiative’s execution. Coordinator Ubaid Matraji urged President Subianto to halt the program temporarily and conduct a comprehensive review, prioritizing child safety over political objectives.

Matraji added, “We must reassess those responsible for these health issues and the resulting trauma among children. Our focus should be on ensuring their well-being and addressing the psychological impact of this crisis.”