Unregistered Marriages Can Increase Stunting Risk, Says Minister

Minister of Population and Family Development (Mendukbangga)/Head of BKKBN Wihaji has stated that marriages which are not officially registered can increase the risk of families being at risk of stunting (KRS).

Wihaji made the statement during a visit to a KRS in Sleman Regency, Yogyakarta, as part of the lead-up to the 33rd National Family Day (Harganas) which falls on 29 June.

“We found a case of a mother with three children who faced economic hardship after her marriage was not officially registered and her husband passed away. This case shows that public understanding of the risks that can arise from unregistered marriages is still low,” he said.

Therefore, he has asked the Family Assistance Team (TPK), field counsellors, and officers from the Ministry of Population and Family Development/BKKBN to strengthen education for prospective brides and grooms so they understand the consequences of decisions that can impact family and child welfare.

“We must educate the public about the risks that can arise. TPK must assist prospective brides and grooms so that the families they build in the future are better prepared and better off,” he stated.

On the occasion, he also affirmed that the Ministry of Population and Family Development/BKKBN will continue to reach vulnerable groups through the Foster Parent Movement to Prevent Stunting (Genting) programme by involving various parties, including the business sector and local governments.

The government continues to encourage the strengthening of the Genting programme as one of the strategies to accelerate stunting reduction through an integrated and sustainable approach. With support from various parties, it is hoped that more families at risk of stunting will receive appropriate assistance and support according to their needs, thereby realising healthy, quality, and prosperous families.