127 Students Suspected of Food Poisoning from MBG in Pariaman, 2 Hospitalized at HCU, City Government Covers Treatment Costs

PARIAMAN, KOMPAS.com - The Pariaman City Government in West Sumatra has covered the medical expenses for 127 students who are suspected of food poisoning after consuming the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program.

Pariaman Mayor Yota Balad stated that the medical costs for the victims are usually borne by a foundation.

However, the Pariaman City Government decided to take immediate action to ensure that treatment for the sick students would not be delayed.

"The medical expenses for the children are typically covered by a foundation, but right now, we’re stepping in from the Pariaman City Government. The main priority is to save the children who have been poisoned. We treat those affected first," Yota said in an interview with TribunPadang.com during an event with Indonesia’s Deputy Health Minister Dr. Benjamin Paulus Octavianus at RS M Djamil Padang on Friday (18/9/2026).

When asked if the city government would cover the costs, Yota confirmed.

"Yes, we are covering it," he said.

Two students remain hospitalized at RS M Djamil

Of the total victims, two female students had to be referred to RS M Djamil Padang after their condition worsened.

According to Yota, the two students were initially treated in the ICU after experiencing nausea and abdominal pain.

However, their conditions have gradually improved and they have since been transferred to a regular inpatient ward.

"They were indeed admitted to the ICU yesterday, but now they are in the inpatient ward," Yota said.

He added that their condition had deteriorated the night before, prompting the referral to RS M Djamil.

"Alhamdulillah, they are getting better. So maybe within one or two days, they can return home. We pray for their continued recovery," he stated.

The other victims are reported to be in stable condition.

Cause of poisoning still awaiting laboratory results

The Pariaman City Government is still waiting for laboratory test results to determine the exact cause of the suspected food poisoning.

Yota said the local government cannot yet confirm whether the poisoning was triggered by a particular bacterium or other factors.