KFI and Nutrition International Promote Cross-Sector Collaboration to Accelerate Universal Salt Iodization for Developing Indonesia's Excellent and Talented Human Resources

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The Indonesian Nutrition Foundation for Food Fortification (KFI), in collaboration with Nutrition International, successfully organized a National Workshop titled "Strategies to Accelerate the Achievement of Universal Salt Iodization (USI) for developing Indonesia's Excellent and Talented Human Resources." The workshop took place on Thursday, November 21, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (GMT+7), conducted in a hybrid format at Aloft Hotel, Central Jakarta, and via Zoom Meeting.

The main objective of this event was to align the perspectives of various stakeholders on the current challenges and characteristics of iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) in Indonesia. Additionally, the workshop served as a platform to formulate strategies for accelerating USI, a crucial step toward addressing public health issues and ensuring the development of excellent and talented human resources.

The workshop aimed to achieve the following specific objectives:

1. Disseminating the findings of the KFI-NI study to stakeholders at both national and regional levels.
2. Facilitating an exchange of experiences among stakeholders related to enhancing local government capacity, supporting the salt industry, and implementing monitoring and evaluation (M&E).
3. Refining advocacy materials to be developed into a Policy Paper or Policy Brief, which will be presented at the LSFF Forum or a High-Level Meeting (HLM) of the National Food Fortification Coordination Forum, to strengthen government policies.

The event was attended by 71 participants, with 55 joining in person and 21 participating online. Attendees represented diverse backgrounds, including representatives from ministries and agencies, local governments, health and nutrition experts, salt industry practitioners, and development partners.

 

Opening Remarks by Country Director Nutrition International Indonesia and Chairperson of KFI

The workshop began with welcoming remarks from Herrio Hattu, Country Director of Nutrition International Indonesia, and Nina Sardjunani, Director of KFI. Both emphasized the importance of collective commitment to accelerate USI achievements, supporting a healthier and more productive Indonesian generation. Following the opening remarks, Prof. Drajat Martianto presented the findings of the USI acceleration study. His presentation highlighted the critical need for sustained potassium iodate (KIO3) supply, strengthening monitoring and evaluation systems, and enforcing consistent regulations for non-compliant businesses.

 

Presentation of Study Findings by Prof. Drajat Martianto, moderated by Rozy Afrizal Jafar

Tiga isu utama yang menjadi fokus diskusi dalam workshop ini adalah:

1. Governance of KIO3: : The discontinuation of domestic KIO3 production has led to shortages, posing challenges for small and medium-sized salt industries that rely on small volumes of KIO3 and cannot independently import the compound.
2. Monitoring and Evaluation of Iodized Salt: Weak supervision at the household level has resulted in the circulation of non-standard iodized salt.
3. Commitment to Regulatory Enforcement: A firm yet supportive approach is needed to ensure producers and distributors comply with iodization regulations.

In addition to panel discussions, the workshop provided a platform for international development partners and NGOs such as UNICEF, GAIN, and Nutrition International to share their experiences in supporting USI goals. The event yielded concrete input from participants, which will be compiled into a policy paper to be presented at a national forum. This document is expected to guide the government in formulating more strategic and effective policies to accelerate USI achievements in Indonesia.

Discussion Session

KFI and Nutrition International emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration to achieve these goals. With the support of all parties, accelerating USI will be a strategic step in supporting Indonesia's Excellent and Talented Human Resources aligning with The Golden Indonesia 2045 Vision.

Key recommendations from the discussions included:

1. Ensuring KIO3 Availability and Accessibility: Strategic steps are required to secure the supply of KIO3, including stable provision, equitable distribution, and affordable access for both large-scale and small and medium-sized salt producers.
2. Strengthening Monitoring and Evaluation: Comprehensive and continuous monitoring is essential to ensure the quality of iodized salt reaches households. M&E systems must involve all stakeholders, including BPOM, local governments, health departments, salt producers, and the community.
3. Enhancing Law Enforcement and Developing Integrated Incentives and Rewards: Law enforcement against violations of iodized salt standards must be strengthened. Additionally, incentives and rewards for businesses and regions that achieve USI targets are crucial to motivate and recognize their contributions to the program.