Chairperson of House Commission VIII, Ashabul Kahfi. Photo: Mentari/nr

PARLEMENTARIA, Jakarta - Chairperson of Commission VIII of the House of Representatives Ashabul Kahfi said the Maternal and Child Health Bill (RUU KIA) -- and the First 1,000-Day Phase of Life provided in the bill -- is expected to be a commitment of the House of Representatives of the Republic of Indonesia and the government to minimizing stunting rates in Indonesia.

"This law is aimed at securing better capacity, quality, and future of our children," Kahfi said in a press statement received by Parlementaria, in Jakarta, Wednesday (27/3/2024).

The MCH Bill is expected to improve the welfare of both mothers and children and contribute to the creation of excellent Human Resources (HR). Once passed, the MCH Bill will serve as the legal foundation to minimize the burdens that have been felt by women.

By provisions of the new law, maternity leave will be valid for up to 6 months, during which employees shall be entitled to full wages for up to 4 months and 75 percent of wages in the fifth and sixth months.

Moreover, a two-day paternity leave will also be given to husbands to care for their wives and baby. Every newborn child shall also be entitled to standard complementary foods of adequate nutrition for up to 6 months, as well as access to good health services.

"Well, the important point of this law also is the provision on paternity leave. It means men whose wife gave birth will have the right to a leave. And for those whose wife is sick or has a miscarriage and therefore need to look after their wife, the will be given a 2-3 day leave," he concluded. (tn/aha)