September 11, 2025 | 06:11 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Ambassador of Japan to Indonesia, H.E. Masaki Yasushi, along with representatives from UNICEF and Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency, visited Biak, Papua, on September 11, 2025, to observe a partnership aimed at improving children's nutrition and education.
The delegation witnessed firsthand how the collaborative effort, which includes the Japanese government, UNICEF, and the Indonesian government, is benefiting local children.
During their visit, the delegation toured a central kitchen that provides nutritious meals to schoolchildren. This facility was established with primary support from the Indonesian government, supplemented by technical assistance from UNICEF and financial support from Japan.
The representatives also joined students in their classrooms to observe literacy and numeracy activities, along with nutrition education and school mealtime.
Ambassador Masaki also visited the upgraded Biak fishing port and market, which received direct support from Japan. This facility is expected to boost the local economy and provide a supply of nutritious, locally sourced foods, such as fish, for the school meal program.
A commemorative event was held to officially mark the partnership, following its initial signing in February. The event was attended by officials from JICA and representatives from the Biak Numfor and Papua Provincial governments, as well as school staff and students who will benefit from the program.
Ambassador Masaki highlighted the long history of school lunches in Japan, which promote not only balanced meals but also healthy eating habits.
"Seeing students enjoying nutritious meals at school in Biak, I reaffirmed the importance of ensuring that more children receive nutritious school meals," he stated.
He added that by using locally caught fish from the Japan-supported fishing port, the program encourages local production and revitalizes the local economy.
Meanwhile, UNICEF Indonesia Deputy Representative Jean Lokenga emphasized the importance of ensuring every child's right to education, nutrition, and healthcare.
"We are proud to support children in Biak through services that enhance their learning, nutrition, and overall well-being," he said. He expressed hope that the integrated approach would serve as a valuable example for other regions.
Program's Context and Scope
The two-year partnership, signed in February 2025, aims to directly benefit 7,500 children in pre-primary and primary schools in Biak. It focuses on upgrading central kitchens for meal preparation and improving the quality of teaching in literacy, numeracy, and nutrition.
The program will also train over 150 teachers and principals and support 50 government officials in planning and monitoring large-scale school meals.
The initiative addresses significant challenges faced by children in Papua, where one in four children under five are stunted and many school-age children suffer from malnutrition.
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