Policy Analysis of the Free Nutritious Meal Program in Schools: A Case Study of Six-Month Implementation in Nduga Regency, Papua Pegunungan

Abstract

Background: The Free Nutritious Meal Program (Makan Bergizi Gratis/MBG) is intended to improve children's nutrition and support stunting reduction. However, its implementation in disadvantaged regions may be constrained by geographic isolation, limited administrative capacity, weak service infrastructure, and fragmented governance. Objective: This study examines the implementation gap in MBG during its first six months in Nduga Regency, Papua Pegunungan, and formulates context-sensitive policy recommendations for 3T regions. Methods: A qualitative descriptive policy-analysis design was applied to an academically constructed case scenario using secondary data from regulations, technical guidelines, government reports, institutional publications, and international nutrition guidelines. The documents were purposively selected and analyzed through qualitative content analysis based on Edwards III's four implementation variables: communication, resources, implementer disposition, and bureaucratic structure. Results: The analysis identifies gaps in beneficiary data integration, nonbudgetary resources, local vendor participation, transparency, and central–local coordination. These weaknesses may shift the program's orientation from nutritional outcomes toward routine food distribution and budget absorption. Three SMART policy agendas are proposed: integrated school–posyandu–village targeting, performance-based local supply-chain contracting, and subdistrict-based social nutrition audits. Conclusion: MBG in Nduga requires risk-based territorial adaptation, stronger local participation, and integrated nutrition monitoring to become an accountable intervention that contributes meaningfully to stunting reduction.