PERCEPTIONS AND MYTHS IN STUNTING PREVENTION: OPPORTUNITIES FOR CULTURE-BASED INTERVENTIONS IN INDONESIA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31102/bidadari.2026.9.2.110-122Keywords:
Stunting prevention, Cultural factor, Indonesia, Local wisdom, Community-based interventionsAbstract
Stunting affects 21.6% of Indonesian children under five, making it a critical public health challenge. Despite substantial government investment, conventional biomedical approaches have shown limited success, suggesting the need for culturally-sensitive interventions that address deeply embedded cultural factors influencing child nutrition and growth. This systematic review examined cultural factors, perceptions, and myths related to stunting prevention in Indonesia to identify opportunities for culture-based interventions. A comprehensive systematic review following PRISMA guidelines was conducted using the Scopus database. Studies were included if they examined cultural aspects of stunting prevention within Indonesian contexts and were published in English or Indonesian. Data extraction focused on cultural practices, beliefs, myths, and intervention strategies. Nine studies from diverse Indonesian regions were included, employing various methodologies (qualitative studies, systematic reviews, cross-sectional, mixed-methods, and case studies). Key findings revealed persistent cultural barriers, including open defecation practices despite available sanitation, traditional healing rituals, maternal and infant health myths, and family dynamics involving grandmothers' influence. Religious leaders emerged as effective communication channels, while educational settings showed promise for cultural transformation. Cultural factors significantly influence stunting prevention effectiveness in Indonesia. Successful interventions must integrate traditional beliefs with modern approaches rather than replacing them entirely. Culture-based strategies incorporating religious messaging, community leader engagement, and family-centered approaches represent promising avenues for sustainable stunting prevention across Indonesia's diverse cultural landscape.
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