Authority Accelerates Stunting Reduction in IKN Region

Penajam Paser Utara - The Nusantara Capital Authority (Otorita IKN) is accelerating efforts to reduce stunting in the IKN region, Indonesia’s new capital located in parts of Penajam Paser Utara and Kutai Kartanegara districts, East Kalimantan province. “A comprehensive programme is being implemented to accelerate the reduction of stunting,” stated Suwito, Director of Basic Services at Otorita IKN, when asked about health initiatives in Sepaku, Penajam Paser Utara, on Sunday. The comprehensive interventions include counselling and provision of high-protein foods for stunting-risk families and pregnant women, direct assistance to at-risk households, counselling and iron tablet distribution for prospective brides and school adolescents to prevent anaemia, as well as education on reproductive health knowledge for teenagers. “Education on reproductive health knowledge is provided to junior high school (SMP) and senior high school (SMA) students and equivalents,” he explained. Health education is a vital component in enhancing human resource capacity, targeting approximately 600 school students in the IKN delineation area. The students are given understanding about adolescent reproductive health, the importance of early stunting prevention, and encouragement to become agents of change in their respective communities. According to Suwito, education on early stunting prevention and reproductive health for students is a strategic step in preparing healthy and quality human resources. The health education activities provide positive impacts for the participants, added Sahram, Deputy Head of SMP Negeri 2 in Penajam Paser Utara district, who hopes it can be utilised as part of the journey towards a better future. Several students participating in the health education event organised by Otorita IKN admitted to gaining new insights from the programme. “The education adds new knowledge, learning about stunted children and how to prevent it,” said one participant, Nur Ayatul Husna, a student from SMA Negeri 3 in Penajam Paser Utara district.