Batang Regent Calls Head of BGN after Hundreds Suspected Poisoned from MBG, Demands Thorough Audit

BATANG, KOMPAS.com - Batang Regent M Faiz Kurniawan contacted the Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sudaryono, after hundreds of residents were suspected of food poisoning from eating the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG).

Through a phone call, Faiz reported the situation occurring in his region.

In the conversation, Sudaryono urged Faiz to conduct a thorough audit of the incident.

"Honestly, this morning I already called Mr. Sudaryono to report the situation," Faiz said, as quoted from TribunJateng on Thursday (24/9/2026).

"He said, 'Please audit as thoroughly as possible, Mr. Regent, and also ensure all SPBGs are monitored and investigated,'" he added.

Cause of Poisoning Yet to Be Determined

Faiz also received instructions regarding service units whose investigation results warrant a recommendation to suspend operations. This directive must be acted upon promptly.

"If any are recommended by local government for closure, the Head of BGN confirms they must be shut down," Faiz explained.

However, Faiz stressed that the government has not yet been able to pinpoint the source of the food that caused symptoms in the victims.

According to him, identifying the poisoning source is the responsibility of the health and investigation teams through testing.

All investigation processes must be based on examination and scientific evidence to avoid premature conclusions.

"Therefore, it is up to the health and investigation teams to determine the poisoning source, as this requires labs and must be scientifically verified," Faiz said.

Victims’ Condition Reported Improving

Based on preliminary information received by Faiz, cooking began around 2:00 a.m. WIB.

Food portions were completed by approximately 9:00 a.m., and distribution finished by around 12:00 p.m.

Meanwhile, the Batang Regency administration confirmed that healthcare facilities remain on alert, prepared to handle any increase in patients.

Batang District Health Office head Ida Susilaksmi said they continue to monitor the health progress of all patients, with many treated at Batang Regional Hospital (RSUD).