SMART-MMS Roadshow Continues Across Mataram City, West Lombok, and North Lombok to Strengthen Efforts to Reduce Maternal Mortality, Infant Mortality, and Stunting in West Nusa Tenggara

Group Photo with Participants of the SMART-MMS Roadshow in North Lombok

This strategic meeting served as an important milestone to align scientific and operational approaches across participating teams, discuss field implementation strategies, and strengthen coordination among countries and institutions ahead of the next phase of implementation. The agenda also included discussions on the harmonization of research protocols, data management systems, intervention product manufacturing and distribution mechanisms, as well as clinical trial implementation standards in accordance with Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines.

In her opening remarks, Prof. Rina Agustina, Principal Investigator of the PHOTON Study from the University of Indonesia, emphasized that PHOTON is an ambitious collaborative initiative that brings together multiple countries, institutions, and sectors to generate high-quality scientific evidence aimed at strengthening health systems and improving the health outcomes of vulnerable populations.

She also highlighted the importance of strong partnerships, open dialogue, and shared learning in ensuring the successful implementation of the study and maximizing its potential impact on public health.

Opening Remarks for the SMART-MMS Roadshow Delivered by the Secretary of the North Lombok District Health Office

“SMART-MMS is a strategic initiative to strengthen maternal healthcare services through a more innovative and technology-driven approach. We hope this program will contribute to accelerating stunting reduction efforts while improving the health and well-being of mothers and babies across West Nusa Tenggara,” said Hj. Rusniatun.

COO of the Summit Institute for Development with the Head of the Mataram City Health Office

According to dr. H. Emirald Isfihan, MARS., M.H., CMC., FISQua., Head of the Mataram City Health Office, the SMART-MMS program has the potential to help prevent stunting associated with micronutrient deficiencies during pregnancy.

During the presentation session, participants gained a deeper understanding of the importance of Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation (MMS) in meeting the nutritional needs of pregnant women. Maternal anemia remains one of the leading risk factors contributing to pregnancy and childbirth complications, while also increasing the likelihood of low birth weight among newborns.

The SMART-MMS team also presented the program’s implementation framework, including supplement distribution mechanisms, recommended MMS consumption practices, and the digital monitoring system designed to support adherence among pregnant women.

The monitoring system incorporates several innovative components, including WhatsApp and telephone-based reminders, a digital monitoring dashboard, home visits conducted by Community Health Promoters (CHPs), and the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to assist in tracking and monitoring adherence to MMS consumption.

By combining nutritional interventions with digital innovation, SMART-MMS aims to strengthen maternal health services, improve adherence to supplementation, and contribute to better health outcomes for mothers and children across West Nusa Tenggara.

Discussion Among Healthcare Workers on the Implementation of SMART-MMS

The roadshow also served as a platform for discussion among primary healthcare workers and local stakeholders to address various technical aspects of program implementation. Key topics included the management of maternal anemia, MMS logistics and supply chain management, strategies to improve supplement adherence, and operational challenges encountered across different districts.

Through the implementation of the roadshow in North Lombok Regency, Mataram City, and West Lombok Regency, all stakeholders expressed their commitment to ensuring the successful implementation of SMART-MMS across Lombok Island. The program is expected to play a significant role in supporting efforts to accelerate the reduction of stunting, maternal anemia, low birth weight (LBW), and maternal and infant mortality throughout West Nusa Tenggara Province.

By strengthening collaboration among health authorities, healthcare workers, and community partners, SMART-MMS aims to contribute to a healthier future for mothers and children while generating valuable evidence to inform maternal nutrition and public health policies in Indonesia.