To address the rising rates of childhood obesity and overweight, the Health Ministry has partnered with the Communication and Digital Ministry to restrict the promotion of foods and beverages high in sugar, salt, and fat.
Siti Nadia Tarmizi, the ministry’s director for non-communicable diseases, said on Thursday that the initiative is in line with Government Regulation No. 28 of 2024, which implements Law No. 17 of 2023 on Health.
Tarmizi emphasized that limiting the advertising of unhealthy foods is crucial, especially as children are increasingly exposed to online content that may influence their eating habits, reported Antara.
Data from the 2023 National Health Survey (SKI) showed that 11.9% of children aged 5–12 are overweight, while 7.8% are classified as obese. With upcoming free health screenings (CKG) planned for schoolchildren and teenagers, these figures may turn out to be even higher, Tarmizi noted.
Tarmizi stressed that related diseases develop gradually, which means there is time for early intervention. “Obesity is simple and inexpensive to manage, just limit intake and stay physically active,” she said.
The ministry is also working with other government bodies to promote healthier habits. This includes collaboration with the Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) to implement clearer nutrition labeling and public education on healthy eating.
In partnership with the Finance Ministry, the Health Ministry is also exploring a tax on junk food, aiming to reduce the consumption of unhealthy products while contributing to state revenue.
Further, the Health Ministry is coordinating with the Primary and Secondary Education Ministry to promote nutritious foods and encourage children to engage in physical activity.
“With the support of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), we hope to provide free, nutritious meals to improve children’s diets,” Tarmizi added.
