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The Kerumutan Community Health Centre, with PT Sari Lembah Subur (SLS) assistance, is working to reduce the risk of stunting by growing moringa leaves. Harno, the head of the Kerumutan Health Centre, mentioned that since 2019, he and PT SLS have been collaborating to plant moringa leaves in every home in the Kerumutan area.
Over the last five years, he explained, the number of malnutrition cases has significantly decreased. “Initially, about 20 children were suffering from malnutrition and with a history of disease. After promoting the planting of moringa leaves and distributing seeds, this sub-district has been classified as stunting-free since 2023,” said Harno.
Harno stated that all regions are at risk of malnutrition and stunting. It is important to consider how to overcome these issues despite limitations. Harno believes that moringa leaves can be a solution to reduce stunting. When ready to harvest, moringa leaves can be cooked and used as a vegetable in complementary food menus.
First, the moringa plant is dried until it can be processed into powder and brewed as a drink for pregnant women. Currently, the focus is on producing moringa powder with the support of funds, facilities, and infrastructure from PT SLS. Additionally, cadre training is being conducted with the hope of exporting moringa extract.
Harno mentioned that PT SLS is the only company that actively supports public health in the Kerumutan area, while others have not contributed. He expressed gratitude for the Community Feeding Centre (CFC) programme, which has been operational since 2016.
There are currently 27 Posyandu and 8 internal Posyandu in 10 villages in the Kerumutan sub-district. “CFC only exists in Kerumutan; there is no other Puskesman in Pelalawan. This is because PT SLS and I care about the growth of a healthy generation,” she said.
In the book “Moringa Leaves, Stunting, and National Resilience” written by Dr. Theresia Monica Rahardjo, it is mentioned that the plant is rich in nutrients, including amino acids, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds. Additionally, the plant also contains high levels of vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, vitamins A, B, C, and E.
Sari Lembah Subur’s CSR Assistant, Hanafi Febrian, mentioned that the moringa planting initiative was a collaboration between the company, residents, and the community health center. He stated that the residents can benefit from this planting, as moringa has numerous health benefits. Therefore, they decided to plant moringa simultaneously in villages and houses to promote its benefits for the body.
Source: Radar Pekanbaru
