Indonesian Pediatricians Urge Policy Review on Mass Formula Milk Distribution

The Indonesian Pediatrician Association (IDAI) has taken a significant step by formally addressing the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) with serious concerns about the implementation of the free nutritious meal (MBG) program, specifically its policy on the mass distribution of formula milk. IDAI's open letter, disseminated through their official Instagram account, highlights a critical issue: the potential negative impact on breastfeeding rates among Indonesian mothers.

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Millions of Indonesian babies and children cannot speak for themselves. We Indonesian pediatricians speak for them.

IDAI's primary concern is that the widespread availability of formula milk under the MBG program, particularly when distributed without prior medical consultation or specific indications, could inadvertently lead mothers to abandon breastfeeding. The association emphasizes that while formula milk is a valuable alternative, it cannot replicate the unique and irreplaceable benefits of breast milk, which contains thousands of bioactive components essential for an infant's development and protection. This stance is rooted in the understanding that breast milk is fundamental for infant health, and any policy that undermines breastfeeding practices is a cause for significant concern.

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Formula milk can only be given on the recommendation of a doctor and for medical indications.

Furthermore, IDAI points to existing legal frameworks, including Law Number 17 of 2023 and Government Regulation Number 28 of 2024, which stipulate that formula milk should only be provided upon a doctor's recommendation and for specific medical reasons. The association also notes that the Ministry of Health has previously issued warnings to BGN regarding this mass distribution policy. IDAI's recommendations include aligning public policies between BGN and the Ministry of Health, reinstating the requirement for medical recommendations for formula distribution, prioritizing local food security, and ensuring that national nutrition intervention guidelines are consistent with regulations. IDAI's advocacy underscores the principle that national policies must prioritize child welfare and act as protectors, rather than facilitators for industries that might compromise children's nutritional standards.

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We hope that every nutrition policy truly sides with children. The state must be present as a protector, not an intermediary for industries that want to reduce the nutritional standards of the nation's children.