Editor: Nicholas Goodwin, Eunice Margarini, SKM, MIPH, WFP
Indonesia is striving towards a “Golden Generation” in 2045 when Indonesia enters an era of prosperity driven by its younger generation. The vital pillars of that era are the health and productivity of young people. This underscores the pressing need to address the healthy diet and lifestyle-related behaviors of young people now. With non-communicable diseases (NCDs) on the rise and unhealthy lifestyle choices becoming increasingly prevalent, engaging the youth presents an opportune moment to cultivate positive behavior changes that can yield long-term health benefits, both on an individual and societal level.
Tulodo has been entrusted by the World Food Programme (WFP) to spearhead support for the Ministry of Health’s Healthy Living Community Movement (Gerakan Masyarakat Hidup Sehat/GERMAS), using an integrated digital service and communications program. The aim is to promote healthy eating and physical exercise among young urban people in DKI Jakarta, Jawa Barat, and Kalimantan Timur.
Boosting the impact of its Healthy Living Communities Movement (GERMAS) initiative comes at a crucial time, as Indonesia grapples with an a high burden of risks (diet, physical inactivity, smoking) for NCDs and other problems associated with unhealthy habits, particularly among its younger population.
It will build on WFP’s previous campaign “Keren Dimakan” (Cool to Eat) to improve knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors around healthier lifestyles among urban adolescents. Integrated into the services and communications of the Government’s GERMAS platform, the program will utilize cutting-edge social media and digital delivery approaches to ensure impact.
These innovative approaches will be driven by research to understand the underlying factors influencing the dietary and physical activity habits of young Indonesians. This will help ensure the tailored interventions resonate with the target audience and fit their lived context. Through engagement of communities in which they are active, the program will empower young individuals with knowledge and tools to make healthier choices, thus contributing to their personal health and wellbeing.
The cumulative effect of these impacts on young people will provide substantial support for Indonesia to achieve its aims for sustainable development. We encourage those with an interest and capabilities to join this effort to promote healthier lifestyles among the younger generation.