Thanks to the dedication and service of midwives, mothers can give birth to their infants safely, and the infants can grow healthily
Jakarta (ANTARA) - House of Representatives (DPR) Speaker Puan Maharani has lauded and thanked midwives for their dedication to strengthening the health system in Indonesia, especially the assistance provided to mothers and infants.

"Thank you for the dedication that you have given for sustainable living," she remarked in a written statement issued on Thursday to mark the International Day of the Midwife, which is celebrated every May 5.

"Thanks to the dedication and service of midwives, mothers can give birth to their infants safely, and the infants can grow healthily," Maharani said.

However, health workers in Indonesia, including midwives, still have a lot to do, she highlighted.

This is due to the fact that the rate of maternal and infant mortality is still quite high.

According to the 2015 Census Between Population Survey, two women in Indonesia die every hour due to complications during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.

Indonesia’s maternal mortality rate is still among the highest in Southeast Asia, which is affecting the prosperity, health, and quality of life of women and families, as well as the progress of the nation, Maharani said.

Midwives are playing an important role in handling this issue, she added.

"Hence, we must provide the support necessary to improve the professionalism and competency of midwives," she remarked.

Midwives must be properly educated, trained, and regulated, she opined.

They require a positive environment to work effectively, including working as a part of a supportive team with adequate resources.

"To this end, it is important that investment for midwives must not only focus on numbers, but also on education, sustainable training, regulation, and work environment," the Speaker said.

In a statement released on Thursday, WHO regional director for Africa, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, noted that the International Day of the Midwife provides an opportunity to commend the work of midwives.

It also raises awareness on the important work that midwives perform for mothers and infants.

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Translator: Syaiful Hakim, Fadhli Ruhman
Editor: Sri Haryati
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