"The role of the TP-PKK is very strategic because they are directly in touch with the community, so we hope that they can help the government reduce stunting rates," he said during the opening of the TP-PKK cadre jamboree in Sorong on Friday.
According to government data, as of July 20, 2023, stunting prevalence among children in Southwest Papua was recorded at 19.9 percent.
"This number is still high, and we need to collaborate with strategic steps to reduce it," Musa'ad said.
He emphasized the importance of stunting prevention and handling to realize a healthy and quality generation, which is urgently needed for regional development.
The TP-PKK can contribute to preventing and overcoming stunting through its work programs, he said.
"The PKK team prepares its cadres, and the government provides the funding. This is our strategic step to handle stunting cases together," Musa'ad added.
To overcome stunting in the region, Southwest Papua has implemented the First Thousand Days of Life Guarantee (Jambuhidup) Program.
The program aims to meet the nutritional needs of mothers and children, improve health services, and provide counseling on childcare.
Musa'ad said that the Jambuhidup program aims to ensure the fulfillment of children's nutritional needs during the first thousand days of life, starting from conception to the age of two.
"Activities range from immunizations, supplementary feeding for pregnant women and toddlers, and monitoring the growth of toddlers at local health posts," he added.
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Translator: Yuvensius B, Kenzu
Editor: Anton Santoso
Copyright © ANTARA 2023
