How to Eat Nutritiously for Free at Pesantren: Official Guide by Kemenag
In a groundbreaking move to promote healthy eating habits among students in pesantren across Indonesia, the Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag) has released a comprehensive guide on how to enjoy nutritious meals for free.
Implementing the Program
The Directorate General of Islamic Education (Ditjen Pendis) at Kemenag issued Circular No. 10 of 2024 outlining the guidelines for Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) at Pesantren. This circular aims to ensure that all Islamic educational entities in the country are prepared to support the Free Nutritious Meals initiative, a top priority program for President Prabowo.
According to Director General of Pendis, Abu Rokhmad, the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals program goes beyond providing adequate nutrition; it also plays a crucial role in shaping the character of the students. Rokhmad emphasized that the MBG program serves as a platform for instilling values and morals in the students.
The Importance of Character Building
Rokhmad highlighted that the Free Nutritious Meals program offers a unique opportunity to teach students important spiritual values. For example, students are encouraged to pray before meals, practice tolerance by waiting in line, and demonstrate respect for others while dining. These practices aim to cultivate a sense of responsibility and respect among students, strengthening their character and moral compass.
Guidelines for Nutritious Eating
The Circular No. 10 of 2024 provides specific instructions for implementing the Free Nutritious Meals program at Pesantren. It outlines the following key guidelines:
### Values of Spiritual Enrichment
– Performing ablutions before meals
– Saying a prayer before and after eating
– Using the right hand to eat
– Avoiding excess in food consumption
### Values of Tolerance and Respect
– Queuing orderly for meals
– Respecting classmates during mealtime
– Sharing and maintaining harmony within the community
### Values of Responsibility
– Bringing personal eating utensils from home
– Washing and caring for utensils after use
– Promoting personal hygiene and independence
Meal Distribution Schedule
The distribution of Free Nutritious Meals at Pesantren follows a structured schedule to accommodate students at different levels of education. From early childhood to advanced studies, students receive their meals at designated times to ensure a smooth and efficient process.
In conclusion, the Free Nutritious Meals program at Pesantren not only addresses the nutritional needs of students but also serves as a platform for character development and moral education. By implementing these guidelines, pesantren leaders can create a supportive and enriching environment for their students, fostering values of gratitude, tolerance, and responsibility.
