Government prepares MBG for the elderly, targeting those over 75 years old

JAKARTA - Social Minister (Mensos) Saifullah Yusuf or Gus Ipul said the government was finalizing the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program for elderly parents (elderly), especially those over 75 years old and living alone.

Gus Ipul said his party had coordinated with the Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) Dadan Hindayana to prepare a scheme for implementing the program.

According to him, currently the program will be prioritized for the elderly over 75 years old. However, in the future, it will be expanded to the age group under 75 years old.

"I have coordinated with the Head of BGN Prof. Dadan to mature the plan to eat free nutritious food for the elderly over the age of 75 and live alone. If the allocation is exhausted (fulfilled), then only under 75 years old," explained Gus Ipul as reported by ANTARA, Tuesday, February 3.

MBG services for the elderly will be carried out through the public kitchen owned by BGN. The kitchen, including the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) located around the beneficiary area, will also serve people with disabilities.

Gus Ipul said that the data on beneficiaries would be obtained from the local government. After going through the assessment process, the data will be determined by the regional head before being handed over to BGN for follow-up in the distribution of services.

In addition, the Ministry of Social Affairs is also preparing to strengthen the assistance service for the elderly and people with disabilities through trained caregivers and nurses gradually.

Before the training process for accompanying personnel is completed, the government will utilize delivery personnel who are tasked with delivering food directly to the beneficiaries' homes.

"We will strengthen with trained nurses gradually. We will start with training first, but before they have not completed the training, yes we will use the forces who send to homes for the elderly and disabled," said Gus Ipul.

Regarding funding, Gus Ipul emphasized that the budget for the MBG program for the elderly would be centralized in BGN. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Social Affairs has a role in preparing a support system and distributing services.

"So, the budget will be one in BGN, while we are preparing the one who delivers, who takes care of it," he added.