Free meals halted at schools in West Java amid volcanic ash risks

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has halted the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme for several schools in West Java, following risks posed by volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau. This decision, announced on 7 September 2026, came into effect amidst the implementation of virtual schooling across various regions due to volcanic eruptions, including in Bogor City, Bogor District, Cianjur District, Sukabumi City, Depok City, and Purwakarta District.

Khairul Hidayati, Head of Legal and Public Relations Bureau at BGN in Jakarta, confirmed the suspension, emphasizing its purpose to ensure the programme's continued adaptability and alignment with regional policies. She highlighted the urgency of anticipating the impacts of volcanic ash on students' learning activities and health.

Hidayati stated that the BGN would monitor the situation closely and coordinate with regional governments, promising a readjustment of the MBG programme once conditions become feasible and in-person learning resumes.

The BGN clarified that the MBG distribution is only temporarily stopped, stressing that the programme's resumption will consider the evolving situation and the schooling policies of each regional administration. Hidayati affirmed that every operational decision will prioritize safety, school readiness, and the interests of programme beneficiaries.

Beyond West Java, similar decisions by schools in Lampung, Banten, and Jakarta provinces to shift to remote learning were prompted by Mount Anak Krakatau's increasing activity. These actions are based on circular letters issued by Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu’ti in 2026, along with a 2019 ministerial regulation.