#HEALTH: Supporting breastfeeding mums
MALAYSIA’S exclusive breastfeeding rate still sits below the Health Ministry’s 50 per cent target. While breastfeeding has multiple benefits for both mother and baby, behind every mother who gives up too early is a story of struggle and lack of support.
MALAYSIA'S exclusive breastfeeding rate remains lower than the Health Ministry's target of 50 percent. While breastfeeding offers numerous advantages for both mother and child, various challenges can hinder this natural process. Issues such as improper attachment, mastitis, and physical breast characteristics can make breastfeeding difficult.
Moreover, returning to work may disrupt breastfeeding, especially when employers fail to provide lactation rooms and facilities for storing breast milk. Yeo Bee Yin, chairperson of the Parliament Select Committee for Women, Children and Community Development, emphasizes that breastfeeding is a collective journey involving families, communities, and healthcare professionals.
During the launch of the Toshiba Empowering Every Mother's Journey initiative, Yeo highlights the need for collaboration between the public and private sectors to educate and create a more supportive environment for mothers and babies. Certified lactation consultant Elizabeth Richard underscores the importance of consistent education, professional guidance, and a supportive environment to assist mothers in feeling confident throughout their breastfeeding journey.
Despite awareness of breastfeeding's benefits, misconceptions persist. Some women mistakenly believe that they cannot breastfeed if their mothers couldn't, assuming it is hereditary. Additionally, mothers who have undergone C-sections are often thought to face challenges in breastfeeding or producing sufficient milk. These misconceptions are false; all mothers can and should be encouraged to breastfeed, with breastfeeding-friendly hospitals taking steps to support new mothers, regardless of their delivery method.
Support from partners and family is crucial in helping new mothers successfully navigate their breastfeeding journey. Elizabeth emphasizes that breastfeeding is a highly individual experience, with each woman's body and baby being unique, necessitating personalized support. For World Breastfeeding Month 2026, Toshiba Lifestyle Malaysia launches the Empowering Every Mother's Journey initiative, aiming to inspire and empower mothers through conversations, expert insights, and practical support.
By integrating technology, education, and community care, the initiative seeks to enhance the quality of everyday life for families and mothers, ensuring confident navigation of important moments.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
