Indonesia puts a spotlight on the double burden of malnutrition with a World Bank video

In April 2015, the World Bank supported efforts in Indonesia by releasing a video that helps to explain the complex double burden of malnutrition faced by the Asian nation. The short animated video explains the impact of stunting and the impact it can have later in life, including obesity. It also highlights the economic consequences of malnutrition, stating that the Indonesian economy suffers losses of an estimated 2-3% of Indonesia’s GDP due to stunting and malnutrition.

Whilst the country has seen great achievements in reducing child mortality, the incidences of stunting increased from 35.6 to 37.2 percent between 2010 and 2013. The video calls for health insurance for the poorest 40%, better health services, clear water and sanitation, raised awareness and expansion of social safety net programs.

“One of the main challenges in overcoming stunting in Indonesia is that shortness is often considered normal, due to hereditary reasons,” said Prof. Dr. Endang Achadi, a nutrition expert from the University of Indonesia. She added, “Shortness is not the real problem, when it comes to stunting, other processes in the body are also stunted, such as brain development, which affects intelligence.”

Learn more at the World Bank