SEAMEO RECFON held a webinar titled “Towards Inclusive Holistic and Integrated Early Childhood Education (ECE-HI): Nutrition and Stimulation for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder” as part of the 2nd Workshop on the Early Childhood Care, Nutrition and Education (ECCNE) Working Group Indonesia in 2025. The event was attended by a total of 294 participants, consisting of 84 Zoom participants and 210 viewers via YouTube livestream, including academics and local government partners, early childhood educators, parents of young children, and others.
In his opening remarks, SEAMEO RECFON Director, Dr. dr. Herqutanto, MPH., MARS., Sp.KKLP, expressed appreciation for the collective effort to strengthen inclusive early childhood care in Indonesia. He emphasized that an inclusive ECE-HI approach is not only a framework, but also a commitment to recognizing each child’s unique potential. For children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), early access to proper nutrition, stimulation, and developmental support can open pathways for better learning, adaptation, and well-being. Dr. Herqutanto thanked the speakers and participants who continue to dedicate their time, knowledge, and compassion to improving the lives of young children across the country.
Continuing the session, ECCNE Program Coordinator, Dr. Ir. Umi Fahmida, M.Sc., from SEAMEO RECFON presented updates on the ECCNE Program Implementation in Indonesia for the last semester, highlighting ongoing efforts to strengthen ECE-HI implementation through the ECCNE model development, pilot-site mentoring, and collaborative research, including a study on the Development of the ECCNE Model for Children with Special Needs conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Population and Family Development (Kemendukbangga)/National Population and Family Planning Agency (BKKBN) of the Republic of Indonesia.
The webinar continued with two expert sessions that offered deeper insights into the needs of children with ASD. Dr. dr. Bernie Endyarni Medise, Sp.A(K), MPH., from the Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia (FKUI), discussed “Dietary Patterns and Balanced Nutrition Principles for Children with ASD.” She explained the unique eating behaviors and nutritional challenges often faced by children with autism and shared practical approaches for parents and caregivers to provide balanced, enjoyable meals that support their health and development.
This was followed by Hermito Gidion, A.Md.OT., S.Psi., M.Psi.T., from the Vocational Education Program, University of Indonesia, who presented “The Role of Occupational Therapy in the Development of Children with ASD.” He explained how occupational therapy supports children with ASD in developing independence, managing their sensory experiences, and participating more confidently in daily activities. These steps not only encourage healthy growth but also contribute positively to family routines and overall well-being.
Through this webinar, SEAMEO RECFON reaffirms its commitment to promoting early childhood care that is inclusive, compassionate, and grounded in evidence. By working together, the ECCNE Program continues to create environments where every child, including those with diverse developmental needs, can learn, grow, and reach their fullest potential.
