Stakeholder Collaboration to Accelerate Stunting Prevention in the Village

Abstract

Presidential Regulation No. 72 of 2021 concerning the Acceleration of Reducing Stunting stated that regency/city governments, village governments, and other stakeholders in implementing programs aimed at accelerating the reduction of stunting. This study analyzed cross-sector stakeholder collaboration at the village level in efforts to handle stunting within the Gemawang Primary Healthcare Center (PHC) working area, Temanggung Regency, Central Java. The study, conducted from April to September 2022, employed a qualitative approach, with data collected through in-depth interviews with key informants. The results revealed that stunting management policies were in place from the provincial to the district level and were subsequently followed up at the village level. Additionally, collaborative efforts had been made at the village level with religious figures, such as ulama (Islamic scholar) and priests. However, challenges remained there, including concerns expressed by some village heads over declaring their villages "stunting-free.". The reluctance has led to a lack of support from certain village officials. Therefore, aligning the perceptions with the objectives of the stunting management program is essential to ensure that all stakeholders can collaborate toward a common goal.