Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia’s Health Ministry has launched a Fatherhood Movement to support children during their first 1,000 days, recognizing fathers’ role in shaping development from pregnancy through early childhood.

Deputy Health Minister Dante Saksono Harbuwono said here Sunday the government had established four key interventions to reduce stunting and maternal and infant mortality under the First 1,000 Days of Life Program.

The four interventions cover the periods before pregnancy; during pregnancy, childbirth and the newborn period; the first two years of life; and strengthening health services.

However, Harbuwono said the program would not succeed without strong family support, highlighting the Fatherhood Movement as a key component of efforts to support children during their first 1,000 days.

“The brain develops particularly rapidly from birth to age two. Therefore, investing in the early years is very important,” the deputy minister said.

The Health Ministry has also launched the Fatherhood Movement to encourage fathers to become actively involved in meeting their children’s health needs.

“In the past, we knew the concept of Suami Siaga (Prepared Husband) during childbirth. Therefore, during the first 1,000 days, there should also be Ayah Siaga (Prepared Father) to ensure children grow up healthy,” Harbuwono said.

The First 1,000 Days of Life Program focuses on preventing stunting, reducing maternal and infant mortality, and ensuring optimal child growth and development.

To achieve these goals, preparations should begin during adolescence and before marriage, while children’s health and nutritional needs should no longer be viewed solely as mothers’ responsibility, he added.

Deputy Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Minister Veronica Tan echoed the view, saying cross-sectoral government cooperation must also be reflected in implementation at the household level.

“The quality of education and health depends greatly on the family foundation. Parents and children can be busy, so building quality time together is most important,” Tan said.

“We should also make it a habit to eat home-cooked meals rather than instant food to promote a healthy lifestyle,” she added.

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