Combating Stunting in Children Under Five Years Old: A Narrative Review of Policies and Programs in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is still battling with stunting cases, which remain a health challenge as it negatively hinders child development as well as impact national economic growth. Stunting results from inadequate nutrition and frequent infections during the first 1,000 days of life. This condition not only affects physical growth but also cognitive development, academic achievement, and later-life health, perpetuating a cycle of malnutrition across generations. Several countries in the region have implemented policies and programs to tackle this problem, focusing on both nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive interventions. These interventions vary from community-based initiatives, breastfeeding promotion, to comprehensive national nutrition plans. Despite these efforts, challenges remain, including socioeconomic disparities and the need for better coordination and monitoring of interventions. This study reviews the prevalence of stunting in Southeast Asia and examines the existing policies and programs aimed at reducing stunting rates in the region. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on stunting in Southeast Asia to clarify regional gaps and guide targeted interventions. It provides a practical reference for strengthening policies and programs aimed at reducing stunting.