Over 800 Indonesian Students and Teachers Fall Ill from Government Free Meals

Quick Brief
More than 800 students and teachers across Java and Sumatra have fallen ill with food poisoning linked to Indonesia's government-funded free-meals initiative. Dozens required hospitalization after experiencing nausea, vomiting, and stomach aches following the meals. The incident has intensified criticism surrounding President Prabowo Subianto's signature welfare program.
What Happened?
Across three separate incidents this week in Java and Sumatra, over 800 students and teachers fell ill with food poisoning symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and stomach aches after consuming meals provided by the government. Dozens of the affected individuals were subsequently hospitalized.
Why It Matters
The mass illness deals a blow to President Prabowo Subianto's flagship free-meals program, which was launched last year to combat malnutrition by distributing meals to over 62 million students and pregnant women nationwide. The outbreaks are driving increased public criticism of the initiative.
Key Facts
- More than 800 students and teachers fell ill in three separate incidents.
- The incidents occurred across Java and Sumatra.
- Symptoms reported included nausea, vomiting, and stomach aches.
- Dozens of victims were hospitalized.
- The meals are part of President Prabowo Subianto's flagship free-meals program.
- The program aims to reach over 62 million students and pregnant women to tackle malnutrition.
Compiled from 1 outlet
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