Surabaya, Indonesia's dynamic urban hub, has achieved a monumental victory in the fight against child stunting, reducing its prevalence to an unprecedented low of 1.6%. This milestone not only underscores the city's commitment to the well-being of its youngest residents but also positions Surabaya as a beacon of hope and progress in the national effort to address malnutrition and ensure the healthy development of future generations.

A Triumph of Collaboration

Surabaya's success in tackling child stunting is the result of a concerted, multi-sectoral effort that brought together government agencies, healthcare providers, non-government organizations, Surabaya Hebat cadres, Family Assistance Team, Health City Forum, universities and society. Recognizing the urgent need to address the underlying causes of stunting, stakeholders worked in unison to implement targeted interventions and policies aimed at improving nutrition, healthcare access, and socioeconomic conditions for vulnerable families.

Addressing Root Causes

At the heart of Surabaya's strategy was a holistic approach to addressing the root causes of stunting, which extend far beyond inadequate food intake to encompass factors such as maternal health, sanitation, hygiene, and access to healthcare services. By investing in maternal and child healthcare programs such as: 1 Community Health Center 1 Pediatrician and 1 Community Health Center 1 Obstetrician-gynecologist, promoting breastfeeding practices, improving water and sanitation infrastructure and providing nutritional supplements, the city laid the groundwork for sustainable progress in combating stunting.

Community Empowerment

Crucially, Surabaya's efforts to combat child stunting were not limited to top-down interventions but also involved empowering communities to take ownership of their health and well-being. Local initiatives, such as the improved services of community health centers, breastfeeding support villages, and additional food provision programs, are the key success in promoting healthy practices and fostering a supportive environment for children to thrive. Rembug stunting is also conducted in the city, sub-district and urban village levels to figure out the determinant factors of Stunting emergence in every smallest area in Surabaya to address and solve the factors effectively.

Measurable Impact

The impact of Surabaya's initiatives is palpable and far-reaching. By prioritizing early childhood nutrition and development, the city has not only reduced the prevalence of stunting but also improved children's overall health outcomes, cognitive development, and long-term prospects. Families once burdened by the devastating effects of malnutrition now have renewed hope for a brighter future, thanks to access to essential healthcare services and zero stunting digitalized and integrated business process.

A National Model

Surabaya's achievement in reducing child stunting prevalence to 1.6% sets a powerful example for other cities and regions across Indonesia grappling with similar challenges. By sharing best practices, lessons learned, and innovative solutions, Surabaya can serve as a catalyst for nationwide progress in addressing malnutrition and ensuring the wellbeing of every child, regardless of socioeconomic status or geographical location.

Looking Ahead

As Surabaya celebrates this historic milestone, Surabaya City Mayor, Eri Cahyadi, has been honored with a prestigious award recognizing exemplary leadership and dedication to combat child stunting and malnutrition. Under the mayor's visionary leadership, Surabaya has implemented a comprehensive set of policies and initiatives aimed at stunting and malnutrition eradication.

Sustaining and building upon the gains made will require continued investment, innovation, and collaboration at all levels of government and society. By remaining steadfast in its commitment to the health and welfare of its youngest citizens, Surabaya can chart a course towards a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.