Food Poisoning Hits 72 Students in East Jakarta Linked to Free Meal Program
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung paid a personal visit to students affected by suspected food poisoning linked to the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program at Duren Sawit Regional Special Hospital (RSKD) in East Jakarta on Saturday, April 4, 2026. He assured that the Jakarta Provincial Government is providing prompt and high-quality medical care to all affected students.
Pramono stated that the food suspected to have caused the illness originated from the SPPG Pondok Kelapa II kitchen in East Jakarta. The incident affected students from four schools: SMAN 91, SDN Pondok Kelapa 01, SDN Pondok Kelapa 07, and SDN Pondok Kelapa 09.
“We are acting quickly to ensure that all affected students receive proper treatment. So far, 72 individuals have been treated across three hospitals, namely RSKD Duren Sawit, RS Pondok Kopi, and RS Harum,” Pramono said in an official statement.
He added that several other students sought medical attention at different hospitals but did not require hospitalization. “They have since been discharged and allowed to return home,” he confirmed.
Pramono emphasized that the provincial government will continue monitoring the condition of all affected students, including those still undergoing treatment, to ensure a full recovery.
“The symptoms generally include fever, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. However, the patients’ conditions are currently stable. We are optimistic that they will recover within one to two days and can soon resume their normal activities,” he said.
In addition to ensuring healthcare services, the Jakarta Provincial Government is coordinating with the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to address the situation. In line with BGN’s policy, all medical and recovery expenses for the victims will be fully covered.
“We are working closely with the National Nutrition Agency. Our priority is to ensure that all students receive proper care and that their families are not burdened with medical costs,” Pramono added.
The Jakarta Provincial Government also reported that BGN, in collaboration with the East Jakarta Health Office, is conducting an investigation to determine the exact cause of the incident. The investigation aims to confirm the diagnosis and serve as a basis for further evaluation.
In a separate statement, BGN announced that operations at SPPG Pondok Kelapa II have been temporarily suspended pending further evaluation. The agency is also preparing contingency measures, including appointing alternative service providers to ensure the continuity of the MBG program for other beneficiary schools.
Source : https://en.tempo.co/read/2096315/jakarta-72-students-poisoned-by-free-meals-in-duren-sawit
