July 30, 2025 was a memorable day for the residents of Serdang Bedagai, especially for Aslina who shared her inspiring transformation story. At the Nutritional Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) in Cempedak Lobang, Sei Rampah, Aslina expressed her deep gratitude for the program that changed her life. Surrounded by regional leaders like Hasan Nasbi and North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution, she tearfully thanked the President for the positive impact on her daily life.
Before joining the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program, Aslina was a homemaker with no source of income while her husband’s earnings were limited as a laborer. Now, she plays a role in preparing healthy meals for school children in her community, bringing new hope into her life. Normawati, another participant, also shared how the opportunity to earn extra income close to home has been instrumental in supporting her family and her children who benefit from the nutritious meals provided by the MBG program.
The positive impact of the program is not limited to housewives, as demonstrated by the story of Shinta Ramadana, a 21-year-old who was previously unemployed. She now works in food preparation with great enthusiasm, embodying the empowerment spirit nurtured by the MBG Program. These women are just a few examples of many individuals nationwide who have found employment opportunities and a renewed sense of hope through this initiative, based on data from the National Nutrition Agency.
More than just providing nutritious meals, the MBG Program signifies empowerment and transformation. It has turned kitchens into places of hope, where individuals like Aslina, Norma, and Shinta have discovered opportunities for meaningful work and personal growth.
