Minister Appreciates Stunting Reduction in Kulon Progo, Credits Family Assistance Cadres

The Minister of Population and Family Development/Head of the National Population and Family Planning Board (BKKBN), Wihaji, has expressed appreciation for the achievement in reducing stunting rates in Kulon Progo Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta, which now stands below the national average. The appreciation was conveyed during a working visit to review the implementation of the Bangga Kencana Programme and a meeting with the Family Assistance Teams (TPK) at the Kulon Progo Cultural Park on Friday.

“The achievement in reducing the stunting rate in Kulon Progo is already good, below the national average. We hope this figure can be further reduced until it reaches an optimal point,” said Wihaji. According to him, the role of TPK cadres in the field is crucial in ensuring that nutritional assistance is precisely targeted. Cadres are not only tasked with distribution but must also provide intensive education to beneficiary families so that the aid is consumed by the intended recipients.

“Ensure the aid is consumed by the target, namely pregnant or breastfeeding mothers, not other family members. This is where the educational role of the cadres is very decisive,” he stated. Kulon Progo Regent Agung Setyawan also expressed high appreciation to the TPK cadres, whom he considers the front line in accelerating stunting reduction at the grassroots level. “TPK cadres are unsung heroes who assist pregnant women, educate breastfeeding mothers, and ensure our children receive health attention from an early age. The Kulon Progo Regency Government is fully committed to supporting them, both through capacity building and moral support,” said Agung.

Agung has also instructed all regional apparatus, from the sub-district to the village level, to synergise and be proactive in supporting the operational work of cadres in the field. In addition to focusing on family assistance, the local government is integrating stunting intervention efforts through housing rehabilitation for at-risk families. “This step aims to create a decent, healthy living environment that optimally supports child growth and development,” he said. Through synergy between the central and regional governments, supported by the dedication of TPK cadres, the Kulon Progo Regency Government is optimistic it can continue to break the chain of stunting to produce a healthy and intelligent future generation.