21/12/2023 (Malaysia) - Approximately half a million children below the age of five in Malaysia were identified as stunted, a concern deemed incompatible with an advanced nation, as stated by Senator Dr. RA Lingeswaran from the unity government. Lingeswaran expressed his shock when the health ministry's written response revealed that 498,327 children were affected, primarily due to socio-economic factors. He emphasized that such a situation should not have arisen in Malaysia, where quality healthcare and an abundance of food were the norm.
This number accounted for 21% of this population group, a troubling statistic for a nation renowned for its healthcare and food availability. Lingeswaran stressed the significance of addressing this issue urgently, as stunted growth and low body weight during a child's formative years could impair brain development, leading to a phenomenon known as education poverty. Education poverty limits children's access to education and hinders their ability to acquire the skills needed in a rapidly changing society.
Pahang had the highest incidence of stunted children, with nearly half of its young population affected, followed by Kedah, Kuala Lumpur, and Putrajaya (24.3% each), Sabah and Labuan (23.8%), and Melaka (22.9%). Even states with lower rates, such as Negeri Sembilan, Penang, and Perak, reported stunting incidence between 10% and 15%. Lingeswaran called on both state and federal authorities to address this pressing issue collaboratively.
The health ministry cited several causes for stunting, including poor maternal diet leading to babies born underweight, as well as families with low incomes or unemployment. Other factors included introducing solid foods too early and inadequate consumption of nutritious foods, particularly animal proteins critical for growth. Additionally, the stature of mothers and fathers played a role in stunting.
Lingeswaran acknowledged the ministry's ongoing advocacy and food intervention programs but stressed the need for comprehensive efforts from both federal and state authorities to combat this problem effectively.