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Stunting is a condition where a child’s growth is hindered, resulting in a shorter stature compared to their peers due to prolonged inadequate nutrition, particularly during the crucial first 1,000 days of life. This issue transcends physical challenges, impacting brain development and diminishing cognitive abilities, future academic potential, and productivity.
Recent data from the Indonesian Nutrition Status Survey (SSGI) shows that the prevalence of stunting in Indonesia has significantly decreased to 21.6% in 2023 from 24.4% in 2021. The government aims for this figure to further decline to 14% by the end of 2024, in alignment with WHO standards that recommend a prevalence below 20%.
This impressive reduction is a testament to numerous interventions, including enhanced nutrition for pregnant women and children under five, alongside support from corporate CSR programs like supplementary feeding assistance (PMT) for children in priority areas.
Tackling stunting is a vital focus within the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of PT Subur Abadi Plantations (SAP), a palm oil subsidiary of Astra Agro Lestari (AALI) operating in East Kalimantan.
“Public health is a cornerstone of our mission. This activity exemplifies our commitment to supporting the government’s efforts in accelerating the reduction of stunting in Indonesia through Supplementary Food Provision (PMT) at Posyandu,” articulated Fadil, the CSR representative of PT SAP, during an event at the Posyandu in Marah Haloq Village and Lung Melah Village on Wednesday, November 20, 2024.
Fadil emphasized that nutritional issues in children and malnutrition among pregnant women often go unnoticed, underlining the critical role of healthcare workers and the community in educating people about proper nutrition, primarily through initiatives at Posyandu or Puskesmas.
The PMT initiative provides toddlers with nutritious foods such as fruits, vegetables, and adequate protein, essential for their growth and development.
The community has warmly embraced the PMT activities routinely organized by PT SAP. Rahmawati, Chairperson of the Marah Haloq Village Posyandu Cadre, expressed gratitude for the assistance from PT SAP, which plays a vital role in enhancing health services at Posyandu and fulfilling children’s nutritional needs.
“I represent the Posyandu from Marah Haloq Village. Thank you for the PMT assistance provided by PT SAP. Their regular involvement in monitoring stunting through this program is invaluable. We hope this initiative continues in the future,” stated Rahmawati.
Fadil additionally shared that providing extra food is a way the company supports Posyandu cadres for their remarkable efforts so far. The PMT for toddlers is typically prepared independently by Posyandu cadres, and the CSR initiative is designed to boost motivation and lay the groundwork for stunting prevention in the next generation.
“Through the synergy between the company, Posyandu cadres, and the community, PT SAP is dedicated to backing government health programs and fostering a stunting-free future for generations to come,” Fadil concluded.
