Jayapura, Papua, Sept. 26 -- The Papuan People's Council (MRP) has called on foundations managing the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) kitchens in the region to prioritize purchasing food ingredients directly from local farmer groups rather than large-scale traders or vendors.

MRP Chair Nerlince Wamuar Rollo said here on Friday that such a step is crucial to ensure the MBG program run by these foundations also contributes directly to improving the welfare of Papuan communities, particularly farmers.

"Based on our evaluations, we have found that some MBG foundations still source food from outside Papua. In fact, local produce is often more affordable and offers better opportunities for local farmers to become primary suppliers," she explained....