Indonesia Takes Groundbreaking Steps to Improve Maternal Health with MMS Initiative

In May 2025, a significant meeting convened in Bogor, Indonesia, gathering both national and global experts in maternal and child nutrition. This event was led by Vitamin Angels in partnership with the Indonesian Ministry of Health to discuss Indonesia’s ambitious plan for maternal health—the National MMS Antenatal Program. This pioneering initiative aims to replace the traditional iron folic acid (IFA) with a more comprehensive approach: Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation (MMS).

A Revolutionary Approach to Maternal Nutrition

Indonesia stands as a frontrunner in adopting an end-to-end initiative that integrates MMS into its national healthcare framework. With the ambitious goal of reaching 4.8 million pregnant women by the year 2026, this program addresses critical challenges such as maternal anemia, micronutrient deficiencies, and adverse birth outcomes that affect mothers and infants alike. Dr. Lovely Daisy, Director of Family Health Services at the Ministry of Health, highlighted the importance of collaboration in this endeavor, stating, "We are grateful for the collaboration of many partners in supporting this initiative and the rollout of MMS across Indonesia."

Participants from various sectors, including the Indonesian MMS Technical Advisory Group, experts from Kirk Humanitarian, and scientists from six different universities, reflected on the initiative’s vast scope. These discussions aimed to provide a detailed understanding of how the country can effectively implement MMS within its healthcare system.

Tackling Anemia, A National Crisis

Anemia is a significant health challenge affecting nearly half of all pregnant women in Indonesia. The integration of MMS, which has demonstrated superior efficacy in preventing poor birth outcomes compared to IFA, represents a critical advancement in maternal health. The meeting underscored the multifaceted strategy involved in this program, which includes new policies, regulatory frameworks, comprehensive training for healthcare providers, behavior change counseling, and a sustainable transition plan for local manufacturing.

Dr. Ana Céspedes, CEO of Vitamin Angels, emphasized the importance of this comprehensive initiative: "What makes this initiative truly exceptional is our close partnership with the Ministry of Health to address every aspect of implementation. It stands as one of the most comprehensive and impactful maternal nutrition programs Vitamin Angels has supported in recent years."

Sustainable Development and Local Manufacturing

A key element of this initiative is the advancement of policies that support the domestic manufacturing of MMS. Such steps are crucial for ensuring a reliable supply, transcending reliance on imported or donated products. Spencer Kirk, Managing Director of Kirk Humanitarian, noted, "Indonesia is the first country to identify and successfully implement a strategy to secure a sustainable supply of MMS from local manufacturers."

This strategy not only meets local needs but also positions Indonesia as a potential player in the regional export market for MMS, demonstrating a commitment to self-sufficiency in maternal healthcare.

Future Goals and Commitments

Looking ahead, Vitamin Angels is dedicated to equipping healthcare professionals with the necessary training and resources to effectively deliver care. In 2025, approximately 1.3 million pregnant women are projected to receive MMS across 209 districts, with an anticipation of distributing an additional 1.3 million bottles by the third quarter. By 2026, the initiative aims to broaden its reach, impacting 4.8 million pregnant women nationwide.

Otte Santika, Senior Country Advisor at Vitamin Angels, remarked, "This program wouldn't be possible without the vision and leadership of the Ministry of Health of Indonesia. This united effort is improving the health of millions of women and children across Indonesia."

To support this vital initiative and learn more about Vitamin Angels' global outreach, visit vitaminangels.org. This commitment to improving maternal and child nutrition is pivotal to fostering healthier futures for the next generation both in Indonesia and worldwide.