ibnchannel.id – Chairperson of the PKK Mobilization Team and also Chairperson of the Posyandu Development Team of Bali Province, Putri Suastini Koster, attended the celebration of the anniversary of the Indonesian Midwives Association (IBI) of Bali Province with great enthusiasm and appreciation for the strategic role of midwives in improving public health quality, particularly in addressing stunting in Bali.
The event was held at Nari Graha Hall on Saturday (June 28) and was also attended by the Chairwoman of the Bali Province BKOW, Seniasih Giri Prasta.
In her speech, Putri Koster expressed her hope that midwives would continue to enhance their healthcare services and closely collaborate with the Health Department and hospitals throughout Bali.
“What the midwives in Bali have done is truly extraordinary, and we hope they continue to make a significant contribution to improving health in the Province of Bali,” she said.
Stunting Rate in Bali accounts for 6%
She revealed that the stunting rate in Bali is currently around 6%, significantly lower than other provinces in Indonesia. However, Putri emphasized that this number must continue to be reduced until it reaches zero.
“Stunting begins in adolescence. Therefore, the role of midwives in the community is very important in educating young girls to maintain their health early on. Thanks to widespread socialization, the condition has greatly improved. But we must not become complacent,” she stressed.
Putri also reminded that if a child has already been diagnosed with stunting, their brain development can be permanently impaired. However, if the condition is still at the stage of malnutrition, there is still a chance for recovery. Therefore, preventive measures are far more important.
She also emphasized the importance of collaboration between health workers, the Health Department, as well as the active role of the PKK and the community in prevention efforts. “We must all move together. Don’t let the stunting rate rise again,” she stated.
At the end of her speech, Putri Koster called on midwives to continue improving their competence, professionalism, and best services to the public. “Let’s be more professional in carrying out our duties. We want to raise a healthy and excellent young generation for Bali’s future,” she concluded.
Ongoing Support for Midwives in Bali
Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the Indonesian Midwives Association (IBI) of Bali Province, Ni Nyoman Budiani, in her speech, expressed gratitude for Putri Koster’s presence and ongoing support for midwives in Bali. She emphasized that IBI Bali is fully committed to actively supporting government programs, especially in efforts to accelerate the reduction of stunting.
“The role of midwives is not only during childbirth, but begins in adolescence, continues through pregnancy, childbirth, and the child’s growth and development stages. We continuously improve our members’ competencies and ensure services are provided with high standards and empathy,” she said.
Nyoman Budiani also stated that IBI Bali would continue to synergize with various parties, including the Health Department, hospitals, and community organizations, to strengthen education and health services at the village and sub-district levels.
“This anniversary spirit serves as a reminder for all of us to keep working and serving the community with heart, for a healthier Bali and an outstanding generation,” she concluded.
As part of the celebration, a unique and captivating fashion show was also presented by midwives from all districts and cities in Bali. They wore traditional Balinese endek fabric from Putri Koster’s collection. This fashion show not only showcased the creativity and elegance of the midwives but also served as a form of cultural preservation of Balinese traditional textiles, which Putri continuously promotes.
The presence of the midwives in endek attire demonstrated that women, in their roles as healthcare professionals, can also be proud cultural ambassadors. Their appearance was warmly received and appreciated by all the invited guests.***
