Jakarta Provincial Government Aims to Reduce Stunting Rates to 15 Percent

Jakarta: The Jakarta Provincial Government is aiming to reduce the stunting rate to 15 percent by raising public awareness about the importance of nutrition and children’s mental health during the first 1,000 days of life.
 
“Jakarta’s stunting rate stood at 17.2 percent in 2025. The Jakarta Provincial Government's target is to reduce it down to 15 percent,” said Dody Taruna Dwiputra, Head of the Child Protection Division at the Jakarta Empowerment, Child Protection, and Population Control Agency (PPAPP), as quoted by Antara on Friday, June 19, 2026.
 
Speaking at an online seminar entitled “Fill Your Plate, Fill Your Heart: Adequate Nutrition and Mental Health for Optimal Child Growth and Development”, Dody explained that the first 1,000 days of life serve as the most critical period in human development. This period spans from the first 270 days of pregnancy to the 730 days following birth.
 
“During this key period, brain development, physical growth, metabolic development, and the formation of the immune system take place,” noted Dody.
 
He further emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy and balanced diet, with adequate stimulation, and a supportive environment for both prospective mothers and children alike. Families are also encouraged to adopt good parenting practices.
 
Dody reiterated that families hold an obligation to protect children from violence and discrimination, whilst supporting their growth and development.
 
The awareness campaign, which involved several health experts, was aimed specifically at adolescent girls, who may become future mothers. The campaign hopes to have a substantial impact on the future generations to come.
 
(Jonathan Sianto)