inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Minister of Population and Family Development/Head of the National Population and Family Planning Board (BKKBN), Wihaji, has asked each Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) to be creative in cooking the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) menus so that children, especially toddlers, don't get bored.

"Japan is able to modify its menus effectively and efficiently. They may have the same menu every day, but they are prepared well so that children don't get bored while their nutritional needs are still met," explained Wihaji on Wednesday (3/4/2026).

He emphasized that, just like adults, children naturally get bored if they eat the same menu every day. "For example, if there are no new menus, children can get bored after a year," noted Wihaji.

On the other hand, Wihaji appreciated the creativity of SPPG Cipanas, which produces ready-to-cook meals during Ramadan, made from vegetables, protein, and other processed ingredients.

"Earlier, I saw fish being processed into ready-to-cook meals during this fasting month, as well as other creative menus. This could be a good example for other SPPGs," he explained.

He also emphasized the importance of nutritional interventions in the first 1,000 days of life, or ages 0-2, which are crucial for a child's brain development. "This age is crucial for intervention to reduce stunting rates," said Wihaji.

The SPPG serves 12 educational units in Sindangjaya and Cipanas Villages, Cianjur, with 2,860 students, as well as around 200 beneficiaries in the pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers (3B) groups.

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