On July 30, 2025, in Serdang Bedagai, emotions overflowed as Aslina shared her transformation story at the Nutritional Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) in Cempedak Lobang, Sei Rampah. Standing alongside regional leaders such as Hasan Nasbi and North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution, Aslina expressed her gratitude for the life-changing impact of the program. Prior to joining the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program, Aslina was a homemaker with no income, while her husband had limited earnings as a laborer. Now, she plays a vital role in preparing healthy meals for school children in her community, bringing a newfound sense of hope to her life. Normawati, another participant, emphasized how the opportunity to earn additional income close to home has been crucial in supporting her family, especially her children benefiting from the nutritious meals provided by the MBG program. The program’s reach goes beyond housewives, as exemplified by 21-year-old Shinta Ramadana, who went from being unemployed to working in food preparation with enthusiasm, embodying the empowerment spirit of the MBG Program. These women are just a few of the many individuals nationwide who have found employment and a renewed sense of hope through this initiative, as per data from the National Nutrition Agency. More than just offering nutritious meals, the MBG Program represents empowerment and transformation, turning kitchens into spaces of hope where individuals like Aslina, Norma, and Shinta discover opportunities for meaningful work and personal growth.
Inside SPPG Kitchen: The Power of Tears and Gratitude
