Fight Stunting in Cipayung, ASN Asked to Come Down Directly to Accompany Children

Illustration of handling stunting through the provision of Free Nutritional Meals. (ANTARA)

JAKARTA - Stunting is still a public health challenge in various regions of Indonesia. The condition of failure to grow due to chronic malnutrition not only affects the child's height, but also affects cognitive development and the quality of human resources in the future.

In East Jakarta, the local government together with related parties focused on about 83 children who were suspected of stunting in Cipayung District. The approach taken is not only limited to data collection, but also regular supervision and assistance.

"Cipayung District currently has 83 children who are suspected of stunting who must receive more attention and be closely monitored," said East Jakarta Mayor Munjirin in Jakarta, as quoted by ANTARA.

According to Munjirin, children who fall into this category need to be monitored intensively, especially through the Supplementary Food Provision (PMT) program which is carried out for three months.

"I hope that we can pay more attention to children. The way is for each ASN (State Civil Apparatus) to become a foster father or mother of stunting," explained Munjirin.

The stunting foster parent scheme will require the apparatus to monitor the child's condition at least three times a week, including ensuring that the food intake provided is truly in accordance with nutritional needs.

The supervision is considered important because children are the next generation who have the right to grow in a healthy and optimal condition.

"This is important so that their growth and development are also good and healthy," said Munjirin.

Meanwhile, the Cipayung District Head, Diman, detailed the condition of the children who were recorded. Of the total 83 children, 10 children suffered from malnutrition and the other 73 faced malnutrition problems.

"This is a matter of concern for us together. The Regent asked the apparatus in Cipayung District to pay attention to this. Donors were sought, and ASN must also contribute to alleviating stunted children, so that the stunting problem in Cipayung District can be resolved," said Diman.

Through collaboration between the government, apparatus, and community support, the East Jakarta City Government hopes that the handling of stunting in Cipayung can run more effectively and sustainably.