Jakarta (ANTARA) - Jambi Province’s Regional Secretary, Sudirman, stated that the National Midwives' Association (IBI) serves as the frontline in ensuring the health of mothers and children.“Midwives are the frontline defenders of women’s dignity. They not only assist during labor but also educate teenagers about sexual health and the prevention of risky pregnancies,” Sudirman said during the commemoration of IBI’s 74th anniversary in Jambi on Sunday.
He emphasized that the strategic role of midwives in fulfilling women’s sexual and reproductive health rights must be supported by everyone.
“These health aspects are basic rights of women that must be protected by the state. Midwives are more than health personnel; they are advocates for women’s rights, provide psychosocial counseling, and act as agents of change,” he remarked.
According to Sudirman, midwives extend their help across borders and overcome challenges such as difficult geography, limited logistics, and safety risks to ensure that all mothers receive assistance during childbirth and that teenagers have access to accurate information and guidance.
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Jambi regards IBI as a strategic partner in achieving health development targets, he added. These targets are reflected in priority programs such as the primary healthcare system, education, and healthcare coverage for people from lower socio-economic backgrounds.
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“This also includes nutritional aid for pregnant women, toddlers, and teens,” Sudirman elaborated.
He affirmed the government’s understanding of the importance of effective collaboration to ensure public health. Therefore, his administration is committed to strengthening cross-sector partnerships, supporting midwives, and encouraging innovation and sustainable development.
