PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - The West Java Provincial Government is committed to reducing the prevalence of stunting from 21.7 percent in 2023 to 14-15 percent in 2024.

The commitment was conveyed by the Regional Secretary of West Java Province, Herman Suryatman, after attending the Stunting Handling Evaluation Meeting and the Stunting Award Action (ASA) at the Holiday Inn Hotel, Bandung City, Monday (11/25/2024).

"We hope that the results of the convergence actions in the field carried out by 27 cities and districts can significantly reduce stunting rates to 14 or 15 percent in 2024," said Herman.

Herman stated that the West Java Provincial Government and the City and District Governments in West Java have taken concrete steps to reduce the prevalence of stunting. One of them is by helping to make the Indonesian Nutritional Status Survey (SSGI) a success by the Ministry of Health.

In addition, Herman also highlighted the importance of direct execution in the field. He explained three main steps that must be taken by pregnant women in handling stunting.

First, consume iron tablets without exception. Second, have a check-up with a health worker at least six times during pregnancy. Finally, ensure the consumption of animal protein, such as eggs, meat, fish, and milk.

Herman also emphasized the importance of providing exclusive breastfeeding for babies aged 0-6 months, followed by providing animal protein for babies aged 7-24 months.

"Breast milk not only provides health benefits, but also strengthens the love between mother and child, something that cannot be replaced by any technology," he said.

"Our target in 2025 is to reduce stunting rates to below 10 percent, even reaching single digits. This can only be achieved through cross-sectoral mutual cooperation, through a sabilulungan approach," he added.

According to Herman, handling stunting is not only the responsibility of the Health Service, but also requires collaboration across service devices and other sectors.

"This year, we are increasing synergy with 27 heads of health services, health centers, and even sub-district heads to jointly achieve this target," he said.

With the theme "Knitting Hope for West Java", the Stunting Award Action event is an evaluation event as well as an appreciation for regions that show above average performance in handling stunting. Herman hopes that this award can motivate all parties to continue to contribute for a healthier future generation.