The Brunei Darussalam Government's Efforts to Increase The Success of Exclusive Breastfeeding

Twenty-one students of the 11th batch of the Master of Midwifery from the Faculty of Health Sciences, Aisyiyah University (Unisa) Yogyakarta, participated in the International Midwifery Student Exchange Program at the University of Brunei Darussalam. During the program, students visited several major health facilities.

Some of the main health facilities visited include the Gadong Maternal Health Clinic, the Barakas Maternal Health Clinic, the Health Promotion Center, the Jerudong Park Medical Center, and the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Hospital. The program was accompanied by Prof. Dr. Mufdillah, S.SiT., M.Sc and Dr. Askuri, M.Si to study maternal and child health services in Brunei.

During the visit, the students obtained a lot of information about the Brunei government’s efforts to achieve the exclusive breastfeeding target. “Various educational programs and campaigns have been launched in hospitals, clinics, and the mass media to educate pregnant women and new mothers about the importance of breastfeeding, its benefits, and correct breastfeeding techniques. These programs also provide practical support for mothers facing lactation challenges, including counseling from trained medical personnel,” said Prof. Dr. Mufdillah, S.SiT., M.Sc.

The Brunei government is committed to increasing the target for exclusive breastfeeding by continuing to educate the public and provide greater support for breastfeeding mothers. It is hoped that, with these efforts, the rate of exclusive breastfeeding can increase and reach the WHO target. Government agencies and the condition of health facilities in Brunei hope to create a more supportive environment for mothers who choose to exclusively breastfeed for the health and optimal growth of their babies.

Author: Gimanda Nahdiah Diana and Eka Damayanti