Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia During the Inspection of Stunting Reduction Campaign at Srikuncoro Community Health Center, Central Bengkulu Regency, Bengkulu Province, July 20, 2023

This is merely sampling. I want to check stunting [rate] in every province as well as in every regency/city. I am glad that Bengkulu province has an excellent [stunting] reduction rate from 22 [percent] to 18 [percent], meaning that [the rate] in the province is below the national average.

We hope in 2024, [the stunting rate] can be below 14 [percent]. I notice that few people [here] suffer from stunting and they continue to be provided with good nutritional boosts. I also want all provinces to follow suit and involve the private sector to donate. That is also great.

Reporter

Do you have any special message for the public to reduce stunting rate? Must they also participate?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

Yes, public participation, private sector participation. I suppose it will be good if donations from the private sector are used for stunting [reduction].

Reporter

What about eel nuggets, Sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

Yes, they are also good. They are rich in protein. Eel nuggets are great. I think they are great. I suppose innovations in the regions such as the ones we saw are good in promoting stunting reduction in all provinces, regencies, and cities.

Reporter

Thank you, Sir.

(DH/EP)