Addressing stunting in North Jakarta becomes a key priority

Jakarta (ANTARA) -

The Deputy Mayor of North Jakarta, Fredy Setiawan, stated that addressing stunting, or growth failure in infants and toddlers due to malnutrition, in his region is a key priority because it has broad implications for the future of the younger generation.

“Stunting prevention is not just a health issue, but also concerns the quality of human resources and the nation’s future,” said Fredy when opening the Thematic Pre-Development Planning Deliberation (Pra Musrenbang) for Stunting Reduction in 2026 in Jakarta on Thursday.

According to him, stunting must be addressed comprehensively, from fulfilling the nutrition needs of mothers and children, improving sanitation and access to clean water, to educating communities on parenting practices.

Based on data, the stunting prevalence in North Jakarta was recorded at 18.5% in 2022, rising to 19.8% in 2023, and declining to 19.7% in 2024. This reduction is seen as the result of collaborative efforts across various sectors, including health, education, and community empowerment.

Through this forum, Fredy hopes that all stakeholders can formulate integrated and targeted programmes. “Planning must be based on accurate data and by name by address, so that interventions truly target the families in need,” he said.

He also called on all parties to strengthen the roles of families, posyandu cadres, and PKK cadres as the frontline in preventing stunting, especially during the first 1,000 days of life.

“We must be optimistic; with hard work and collective commitment, the stunting reduction target can be achieved to create a healthy, intelligent, and quality generation,” said Fredy.