Since the program's rollout in January, it has encountered multiple setbacks, including widespread food poisoning incidents affecting more than 11,000 children nationwide, according to the non-governmental organization Network for Education Watch Indonesia (JPPI).

The surge in cases has prompted a peaceful protest earlier this week in Jakarta, outside the headquarters of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), which oversees the free meals program.

Mothers participating in the protest, organized under the Indonesian Mothers Alliance, demanded an immediate suspension of the program, describing it as a "health crisis" that jeopardizes children's well-being.

A central point of concern for protesters is the involvement of police and military personnel in food preparation and distribution despite their lack of expertise in nutrition and food safety.

"[The program] should involve nutrition experts and pediatricians," said Ririn Safsani, a spokesperson for the protestors, as others held posters reading "Stop free meals! Prioritize quality, safety and children's dignity" and "Stop free meals! Food should be managed by civilians, not the military or police".