ENHANCING STUNTING REDUCTION THROUGH COLLABORATIVE GOVERNANCE: CONCEPTS AND IMPLEMENTATION IN BREBES REGENCY

Abstract

The issue of stunting is a severe hindrance to the next generation and poses serious challenges for upgrading human resources in low-income states. Brebes Regency in Central Java successfully halved malnutrition due to the right strategy. This paper examines the methods used by Brebes to achieve this decrease, employing a descriptive qualitative research method through observations, literature reviews, and interviews. The research results show that Brebes implemented collaborative governance using two theories: collaborative governance and the Penta Helix cooperation paradigm. This approach integrated resources, revitalized community empowerment, and improved coordination and communication among stakeholders. To conceptually develop some critical requisite ingredients for institutionalizing collaboration, the thesis derives a conceptual framework and proposes ways to fill these gaps. Although impressive improvements have been made in reducing stunting rates, further refinements in collaborative governance practices are required for continued effectiveness. These lessons provide a template for potential strategies that may need to be implemented in other regions, emphasizing the necessity of cross-sector cooperation and holistic governance approaches.