World Breastfeeding Week 2024: Closing the Gap - Breastfeeding Support for All in Malaysia

World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) is observed annually from August 1 to 7. The theme for this year's WBW, "Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All," underscores the critical importance of breastfeeding in enhancing the health and well-being of both mothers and their infants. The "Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All," emphasizes the need for inclusive and equitable support systems to ensure every mother has the resources and encouragement needed to breastfeed successfully. In Malaysia, this theme is particularly pertinent, given the diverse socio-economic and cultural landscape of the country. Many mothers face unique challenges, including varying levels of access to healthcare, differing cultural beliefs about breastfeeding, and limited workplace accommodations for nursing mothers.

The National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) conducted in 2016 indicated that the overall prevalence of individuals who have ever breastfed was 98.1%. It was notably more common within the urban population and among the Malay community. As stated by the World Health Organization and the United Nations Children’s Fund, breastfeeding ought to commence within the first hour after birth, with exclusive breastfeeding recommended for the first six months. It follows with the introduction of nutritionally sufficient complementary (solid) foods at six months, while continuing breastfeeding for up to two years or longer. National data reveals that only 39.4% of women in Malaysia sustain breastfeeding until their children reach two years of age. This statistic highlights a significant shortfall in breastfeeding practices, which are crucial for the health and development of infants. It is imperative to acknowledge that the first two years of a child's life are particularly pivotal, as sufficient nutrition during this period reduces morbidity and mortality rates, decreases the risk of chronic diseases, and fosters improved overall development.

World Breastfeeding Week 2024 serves as a platform to acknowledge the advancements achieved in breastfeeding support within Malaysia, while also highlighting the ongoing efforts required to address existing challenges. These challenges are multifaceted, encompassing societal factors, healthcare system dynamics, and the role of policymakers.

Cultural beliefs and misinformation regarding breastfeeding present substantial obstacles within society. Certain communities may adhere to traditional feeding practices or exhibit a lack of awareness concerning the advantages of exclusive breastfeeding. Educational initiatives are essential for dispelling myths and promoting breastfeeding as a normative and advantageous practice. Programs designed to accommodate various cultural contexts can facilitate the normalization of breastfeeding and address the unique needs of specific communities. By integrating local customs, beliefs, and practices, these programs can cultivate a supportive environment that encourages mothers to engage in breastfeeding.

Although Hospital Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah, UPM is acknowledged as one of the breastfeeding-friendly Hospitals, Malaysia needs to further advance its efforts in encouraging breastfeeding by boosting the number of breastfeeding-friendly hospitals and establishing ongoing training programs for healthcare professionals focused on breastfeeding consultancy. Additionally, adhering to the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) guidelines can foster a more nurturing atmosphere for new mothers and enable them to make educated decisions regarding breastfeeding.

Creating specific breastfeeding zones in both workplaces and public areas can motivate a greater number of mothers to breastfeed. Work environments should be urged to implement breastfeeding-supportive policies, including flexible working hours and allocated breastfeeding spaces, to assist mothers in maintaining breastfeeding after they resume work. By enacting and upholding regulations that favour breastfeeding in public and professional settings, it can reduce some of the challenges that working mothers encounter, thereby promoting a healthier community and environment.

In commemoration of this year's World Breastfeeding Week, Hospital Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), has organized a comprehensive series of programs, which includes a breastfeeding forum and lectures aimed at both the general public and healthcare professionals.

Dr. Siti Farhana Md Pauzi

Senior Medical Lecturer

Department of Obstetric and Gynaecology

Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia

Date of Input: 06/08/2024 | Updated: 04/09/2024 | nadia_rahman