130 Free Nutritious Food Kitchens To Be Built In The 3T Riau Islands Region

SPPG officers who were transporting foodstuffs to the small boat on Behindpadang Island, Batam, Riau Islands. (ANTARA)

JAKARTA - The Riau Islands Regional Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) noted that 130 Free Nutrition Food (MBG) kitchens will be built to reach people in disadvantaged, frontier, and outermost (3T) areas in all districts and cities in the province.

The Head of the Riau Islands SPPG Regional, Anindita Ayu, said that most of the kitchens had obtained certificates from investors and were ready to enter the development stage.

"Only three kitchens are still in the process of issuing a certificate, the rest are ready to be built," he said when contacted in Batam, Sunday (9/11).

The plan to build a 3T MBG kitchen is spread across several areas, namely 14 kitchens in Natuna, 20 kitchens in Anambas, 30 kitchens in Batam, 1 kitchen in Tanjungpinang, 9 kitchens in Bintan, 41 kitchens in Lingga, and 15 kitchens in Karimun.

Anindita explained that the number of kitchens had been finally determined through the results of joint planning between the central and regional governments.

"Each 3T kitchen will serve one island with a maximum capacity of 1,000 beneficiaries. So, the amount is adjusted to the needs and geographical conditions of each region," he said.

In addition to focusing on new development, the Riau Islands SPPG also strengthens supervision of the standard kitchen hygiene that has been operating. To date, 19 MBG kitchens have obtained a Sanitation Higiene Laik Letter (SLHS) after going through a series of water tests, food sample tests, and environmental inspections.

Anindita added that so far there have been no cases of food poisoning in the Riau Islands area.

"Alhamdulillah, since October until now there have been no reports of food poisoning. This is also due to routine training on food processing, kitchen cleaning, and capacity building of officers," he said.

Through the construction of new kitchens in the 3T area, the Riau Islands SPPG hopes that the Free Nutrition Food program can reach all beneficiaries, ensuring they get safe, nutritious, and even food intake throughout the island.