President Jokowi, World Bank President Discuss Stunting During Bogor Meeting
Presiden Jokowi talks with President of the World Bank Jim Yong Kim, at Bogor Palace, West Java, Wednesday (4/7). (Photo: PR/Fitri)
President Joko Jokowi Widodo on Wednesday (4/7) met with World Bank President Jim Yong Kim at Bogor Palace to discuss stunting – or improper growth caused by malnutrition problem – suffered by many Indonesian toddlers.
In my opinion, stunting is a crucial issue. I believe the people wish to have a leader like you (World Bank President) and me who can make a breakthrough to solve this problem, the President said in his introductory remarks before the meeting.
The President also expressed his belief that both Indonesia and the World Bank know how to tackle the stunting and conveyed his hope that both Indonesia and the World Bank can discuss practical ways to overcome the problem, including the involvement of private sector, civil society and the use of technology.
As we are all aware, 21st century is the era of smartphone, social media, drone, and artificial intelligence. I believe, stunting can be solved by using current technology available, said the President.
He added that the involvement of private sector is important because progress will be very slow if it only relies on the Governments efforts.
The involvement of technology and related stakeholders, such as private sectors and Islamic organizations is needed to improve measures to reduce and prevent stunting, the President said.
After the meeting, President Jokowi invited Jim Yong Kim to oversee the Governments program in tackling stunting problem at Tangkil 01 elementary school in Caringin District, Bogor Regency, West Java. The President explained he invited World Bank President to review this program directly because it has years of experience in many countries to solve the problem and Indonesia wishes to discuss and exchange views about it.
In the meantime, Jim Yong Kim stressed that stunting is a very serious problem and stunted children need help as soon as possible. If those children do not receive immediate treatment, they wont be able to optimize their potential and give maximum contribution to the country, Kim said, adding that handling stunting also needs commitment and strong political will from leaders.
Kim also praised Indonesia as one of the largest developing countries showing the commitment.
Joining the President during the meeting in Bogor were Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs Luhut B. Pandjaitan, Cabinet Secretary Pramono Anung, Minister of Finance Sri Mulyani, and Minister of Health Nila F. Moeloek. (DND/ES) (STU/EP/Naster)
