Timeline of mass food poisoning complaints among Sidoarjo boarding-school students

The health complaints began only after the students had eaten and continued their lessons, according to Ahmad Zainal, an administrator at Manba’ul Hikam Islamic boarding school in Sidoarjo.

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From 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., classes were ongoing and the students had not felt any symptoms.

The Free Nutritious Meals, known as MBG, arrived at the school around noon on Sept. 1, 2026, and students began eating at about 1 p.m. Classes continued afterward. Ahmad said no symptoms had appeared by around 3 p.m., telling Republika, “From 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., classes were ongoing and the students had not felt any symptoms.”

Several complaints emerged after students performed congregational prayers between about 3 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. The number of students reporting similar symptoms then increased until the situation became an emergency. “During the lesson after congregational prayers, some students began complaining, until it eventually became an emergency because more and more students were experiencing the same complaints,” Ahmad said.

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During the lesson after congregational prayers, some students began complaining, until it eventually became an emergency because more and more students were experiencing the same complaints.

After Maghrib prayers, ambulances began arriving from hospitals and volunteer groups. Students requiring treatment were referred to hospitals across Sidoarjo.

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This also included nearby boarding schools and schools.

Ahmad said the incident was not limited to Manba’ul Hikam. Nearby boarding schools and schools also reportedly recorded cases, including SDN Kalitengah and SMP Muhammadiyah 8. He said media attention focused on Manba’ul Hikam because private cars and ambulances could be seen transporting students for treatment.

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Almost all the media focused on Manba’ul Hikam last night because private cars and ambulances were coming and going to transport victims.