Impact and implementation issues of the free nutritious meal program in the Maluku Islands: Perspectives from students, teachers, and implementers

This qualitative study explores the perspectives of students, teachers, and program implementers regarding the Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG) in the Maluku. Findings reveal that MBG enhances children’s nutritional status, prevents stunting, increases school attendance, and improves learning concentration. The program also generates social and economic benefits through local job creation and community empowerment. However, challenges include logistical barriers due to geography, limited budget, delayed fund disbursement, coordination gaps, and menu acceptance. Overall, while the MBG provides substantial health, educational, and socio-economic benefits, its effectiveness is constrained by implementation and governance challenges, including logistical barriers, funding delays, and coordination gaps.