Conversations #ForABetterWorld: Yoevan’s Journey to Reduce Stunting in Indonesia
Learning from Danpac’s CEO on his motivations, collaborating with Campaign and the 1000 Days Fund, and how the private sector can support the government’s stunting rate goals.
Indonesia, a nation with a rich tapestry of culture and innovation, has faced the alarming issue of stunting for decades. Stunting, or reduced growth rate in children, remains an unseen barrier that could hinder the nation’s future.
By the end of 2022, the percentage of stunted growth in children under five years old stood at 21.6%, a decrease from 24.4% in 2021. While this is the lowest rate since recording keeping started in the early 2000s, it still indicates a chronic public health problem, according to the WHO’s standards.
In the wake of these challenges, how are key players in Indonesia stepping up to further reduce these numbers and support the government in reaching its ambitious target?
One way is for the private sector to join the efforts with innovative initiatives. Sensitif, collaborating with Haluu Art Museum, has curated the “Positif Journey,” an immersive art exhibition that educates visitors on topics from marriage to pregnancy and stunting prevention. Visitors can also unlock a Rp 25.000 donation from Sensitif by completing the 1000 Days Fund’s “Preventing Stunting with #SensitifJourney” campaign challenge up to Rp 50.000.000!
In my inaugural Conversation #ForABetterWorld, Yoevan Wiraatmaja, CEO of Danpac, sheds light on his motivation, his collaboration with Campaign and the 1000 Days Fund, and how the private sector can be an effective partner in supporting the government’s stunting rate goals. Here’s what he had to say:
Q: Yoevan, the ‘Positif Journey’ has gained significant attention. What inspired its creation?
Family and stories of life are universal. Observing my children’s growth, understanding the significance of their formative days, and identifying gaps in reproductive health awareness in Indonesia were the catalysts. I wanted to craft a narrative using art that resonated with every heart, prompting conversations and transformations.
Q: Why combine art and reproductive health?
Art is a universal language. It transcends barriers, evoking emotions and fostering understanding. Reproductive health, often a hushed topic, needs a medium that speaks out loud, touches the soul, and brings the abstract to life. What better than art to tell these stories?
Q: The partnership with the 1000 Days Fund is inspiring. How did this collaboration come about?
Campaign initially recommended the 1000 Days Fund, and as I delved deeper into its activities, I was deeply moved by its mission and the transformative activities it had undertaken. But what truly cemented my decision was this Instagram post by them. It resonated profoundly with Sensitif’s vision and objectives, making me realize the alignment in our missions. It felt like this impactful partnership was truly meant to be!
Q: What role do you believe the private sector should play in societal issues, especially reproductive health?
Beyond generating profits, the private sector holds a pledge to society. We have the resources and responsibility to foster wellness and prevent illnesses. Initiatives like ‘Positif Journey’ underscore our commitment to elevate life, ensuring a holistic approach to health.
Q: How do you measure the success of the ‘Positif Journey’?
It’s more than the numbers. The success manifests in the conversations ignited, the myths dispelled, and the awareness amplified. Every visitor who leaves with a renewed understanding and every family that feels empowered signifies the real triumph of this journey.
Q: Looking forward, how do you envision the landscape of reproductive health awareness in Indonesia?
I dream of a future where every Indonesian household openly discusses reproductive health. ‘Positif Journey’ is a step, igniting the torch of awareness. I see a ripple effect, with communities feeling empowered and responsible for shaping a healthier, informed generation.
Q: Finally, any message for our readers?
Every voice matters. Each one of us has the power to effect change. Let’s unite, champion causes, and co-create a brighter, healthier future. This isn’t just my or Indonesia’s journey; it’s all of ours.
While Yoevan’s initiatives have grown remarkably in scale and sophistication, the core of his approach remains heartwarmingly constant. It all began with simple gestures: answering direct messages (DMs) from concerned individuals. From there, Sensitif expanded its reach through broader social media campaigns, directly interacting with and educating its audience on various health and family concerns. Now, the Positif Journey art exhibition is a testament to the vast strides the organization has taken in its efforts. Yet, regardless of the channel or scale, Pak Yoevan’s motivation remains unaltered — to support families on their ‘Positif Journey’ for a healthy and happy family.
Complete the #SensitifJourney campaign challenge by the 1000 Days Fund!
Having read about the transformative efforts and the art exhibition’s impact, I’d like to invite you to experience it firsthand personally. Download the Campaign #ForABetterWorld app and complete a simple challenge — taking a snapshot at the “Positif Journey” exhibit at Mall of Indonesia (MOI) until Sunday, 24 September 2023, and captioning it to advocate for women’s empowerment — the public can not only learn but also make a social impact. By taking a moment to take action, you can contribute to a larger change, supporting Indonesia’s battle against stunting. Together, we can ensure a healthier future for our children, creating ripples of positive change. See you there!
