Kendari - The Southeast Sulawesi Provincial Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin Sultra) has secured approval to establish 18 Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) kitchens currently the highest number approved in any province across Indonesia.

Chairman of Kadin Sultra, Anton Timbang, stated that the achievement of 18 MBG kitchen sites is expected to serve as a catalyst for accelerating the development of more kitchens. He emphasized that all MBG kitchens under the coordination of Kadin Sultra are required to meet stringent standards.

"From equipment and hygiene to wastewater treatment installations (IPAL), everything must be standardized. This is essential to ensure the program runs optimally and creates broad impact for the community," Anton said during the MBG Program Socialization Event held at Claro Hotel in Kendari on Friday, July 25, 2025.

Anton further mentioned that, in addition to the 65 kitchens already proposed, several other locations are being finalized for submission as additional sites.

Previously, Anton had highlighted that the MBG program aligns with Kadin Sultra’s broader vision of boosting economic growth and reducing poverty. He reiterated the chamber's full commitment to supporting this national initiative.

"This program isn’t just about nutritious meals it’s about economic equity. We believe that through this initiative, Southeast Sulawesi's economy can grow by up to 8%," Anton affirmed.

Nationally, a total of 200 MBG kitchens are planned to be established in Southeast Sulawesi. Kadin Sultra is actively working to ensure that every family in the region gains access to free nutritious meals.

"I urge all members of Kadin Sultra to collaborate and fully support this program. This is a shared responsibility for a better future for our people," Anton concluded.

Meanwhile, Desi Arianti, Regional Coordinator for Kadin Indonesia’s MBG Task Force (Kadinda Gotong-Royong), added that the MBG kitchens not only provide free nutritious meals to the public but also create jobs and stimulate the local supply chain for essential food items such as rice, vegetables, and other staples.

"This is part of our collective effort to support President Prabowo’s program," Desi stated.