BANGKA BARAT – Supporting the government’s program to reduce the prevalence of stunting, PT Timah is actively conducting education on stunting prevention and management in its operational areas.
Collaborating with the Bangka Belitung branch of the Indonesian Breastfeeding Association (AIMI Babel), PT Timah organized a ‘Nutrition Education’ session at the Village Meeting Hall in Cupat, Parit Tiga District, West Bangka Regency, Bangka Belitung Islands Province, on Monday (02/12/2024).
Through this program, PT Timah and AIMI Babel aim to educate the community on stunting prevention by equipping mothers with the skills to prepare healthy meals that meet balanced nutritional standards using locally available ingredients.
“Thank you to PT Timah for providing our residents with the opportunity to address the stunting issue in our village. Hopefully, activities like this can continue in the future,” said Gegha Khris Kharishma, the Head of Cupat Village.
He explained that the program, held in collaboration with PT Timah and AIMI Babel, will run for three days to educate mothers on preparing nutritious food for their children.
“We hope this initiative positively impacts our community, especially our children so that their weight and motor development improve,” he added.
This activity, Gegha noted, is the first of its kind in their village. However, Cupat Village has implemented other stunting education programs, including activities involving preschool children.
“Our children engage in learning and play activities in our library twice a week. During these sessions, we also provide additional food such as mung bean porridge, snacks, and fruits. Although similar, the target groups differ,” he explained.
Based on Cupat Village government data, the number of stunted children in the village has decreased from 28 to 18.
“Achieving zero stunting might be challenging because community issues are quite complex. However, we hope to see a yearly reduction in numbers. The stigma surrounding stunting is still negative in the community, as parents feel disappointed when their children are categorized as stunted. This is why understanding and education are crucial,” Gegha emphasized.
“We hope our collaboration extends beyond this activity until the stunting rate significantly declines,” he added.
Lisa Astari (37), a local resident who participated in the program, expressed her gratitude for the initiative.
“We are very thankful for PT Timah’s stunting program. It has greatly increased our knowledge and understanding of stunting,” she said.
“Hopefully, PT Timah will also provide nutritional support for children with stunting and continue this program until the stunting rate in our village decreases,” Lisa added.
She hopes such initiatives will enhance parents' understanding of stunting.
“When parents learn that their child is stunted, they often feel stigmatized. However, programs like this help parents better understand what stunting is and how to address it,” she explained.
Anggi Siahaan, Department Head of Corporate Communication at PT Timah, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting the government’s Asta Cita program through various initiatives.
“This nutrition education program aligns with the President of Indonesia’s initiative to improve public health and child nutrition. PT Timah is proud to contribute to the success of this program by collaborating with AIMI Babel,” Anggi stated.
He expressed hope that this program would enhance the nutritional quality of children, contributing to the realization of Golden Indonesia 2045. (*)
