JAYAPURA – The government in the regency and city is urged to run the First 1000 Days of Life program for their citizens. It aims to prevent stunting for newborns.

"The stunting prevalence rate in Papua Province still ranks in the top third according to data from the Indonesian Nutritional Status Survey in 2022 of 34.6 percent."

"That's why this program is important to be encouraged because it is one of the efforts to reduce stunting," explained the Head of the Population and Family Planning Agency (BKKBN) of Papua, Nerius Auparai in Jayapura, Thursday.

He is optimistic that if all city and district governments in four provinces of Papua run the First 1000 Days of Life program, the stunting rate in Papua will decrease.

"I believe that with joint coordination, the target for reduction of the stunting will be overcome," he said.

Nerius added that several districts/cities throughout Papua have low stunting prevalence rates and he appreciates Tolikara Regency Government for caring about the stunting program.

"During the visit to Tolikara, we saw the condition of the baby and the mother there. They are in good health because the stunting team and Integrated Health Post for Child Health routinely provide nutritious food and routine health services," he said. ***