Commemorating National Nutrition Day, Inalum Prevents Stunting at Batu Bara and Toba

In commemorating National Nutrition Day which falls on 25 January 2022, PT Inalum (Persero) member of MIND ID State-Enterprise Holding for the Mining Industry distributes staple foods in Batu Bara and Toba Regencies, to support the program to reduce stunting.

Inalum’s CSR Vice President Ali Hasian said that focus is given to stunting as it causes growth disorders in children who are the next generation.  He added that one of the problems of chronic nutritional deficiencies causing growth disorders is the lack of nutritional intake.  The heights of children suffering from stunting problems are lower or shorter than the standard age.

 “The commitment of the Company in the health sector is aimed at creating a sound and healthy future generation in Batu Bara Regency, and specifically in Sei Suka District.  We hope that the distribution of staple foods will be able to help in lowering the prevalence of stunting,” said Ali.  Inalum also promotes the capacity of the local people regarding stunting through health counselling to 49 heads of families from 9 villages and one sub-district in Sei Suka District,” said Ali.

Inalum distributes aid in the form of red rice (54 kg), green beans (54 kg), baby biscuits (54 packages), multivitamins (54 packs, vegetables (54 packs), rice (540 kg), cooking oil (108 liters), sugar (54 kg) and eggs (1620 pcs).

The prevalence of stunting in Batubara Regency, North Sumatera, during the past two years, has improved significantly.  In August 2020, it was 6.09 percent while in August 2021, 3.2 percent.

Head of the Family Welfare Movement of Batu Bara Regency, Maya Indriasari Zahir, disclosed that the efforts to prevent stunting in Indonesia is a crucial issue and one of the focus of the Central Government and Batu Bara Regency.

“I convey my appreciation to Inalum who is concerned towards the growth of the next generation in Batu Bara Regency and Sei Suka District.  We hope that these programs are beneficial and offer improvements to Batu Bara Regency and Sei Suka District,” said Maya.

In Pohan Meranti District, Toba Regency, Inalum distributes red rice (44 kg), green beans (44 kg), baby biscuits (44 packs), multivitamins (88 packs), fruits (88 packs), rice (46 sacks), cooking oil (46 packs), sugar (46 packs) and eggs (46 packs).

Acting District Head of Pohan Meranti, Josten Sihotang, said that the program to prevent stunting is not only a program of the government, but is the responsibility of everyone.  “There needs to be much collaboration of all parties to make the program to prevent stunting in Indonesia a success,” said Josten.