The Politics of Breastfeeding, Formula & Milk: Why Babies Shouldn't Feed Using Bottles Ft. Nia Umar (Asosiasi Ibu Menyusui Indonesia)

Nia Umar (Rahmah Housniati, S.Sos., MPH., IBCLC) is an international board-certified lactation consultant (IBCLC) and leading breastfeeding advocate in Indonesia. She served as Chairwoman of the Indonesian Breastfeeding Mothers Association (AIMI) from 2018–2023, after co-founding and leading it since 2007.

She is currently the Southeast Asia Coordinator for the International Baby Food Action Network (IBFAN) and a member of the Presidium for the Maternal and Child Health Movement (GKIA). With over 15 years of experience, Nia has been a trainer and facilitator for WHO/UNICEF breastfeeding counseling programs and an active speaker at national and international forums on infant and young child feeding. She is also the author of “Multitasking Breastfeeding Mama: Tips & Tricks Breastfeeding When Returning to Activities."

Beyond her advocacy, she has worked as a babywearing consultant, lactation counselor, and practitioner at RS Medistra. Her career reflects a lifelong commitment to empowering mothers, protecting breastfeeding rights, and advancing maternal and child health in Indonesia and beyond.

This episode is sponsored by Mammary Breastmilk Jewelry, a bespoke keepsake brand dedicated to honoring the intimate bond of motherhood. Founded by mothers, each handcrafted piece is uniquely created using the client’s own breastmilk, symbolizing the love, strength, and sacrifice of the breastfeeding journey.

Thank you to Asosiasi Ibu Menyusui Indonesia (AIMI) and GORDI for supporting this episode.

Shop Mammary: https://tr.ee/6Q2KG740Zq

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Timestamps:

00:00 — Sponsorship Message (Mammary)

00:47 — Adoptive Mothers Can Breastfeed?! Facts, Myths & Risks Of Formula

08:42 — Lack Of Breastfeeding Accessibility Across Indonesia

10:46 — The Politics Of Formula (Nes***), Hospital Misinformation & When Babies Need Formula

35:25 — Stigma Against Breastfeeding & Formula Propaganda

46:16 — Laws & Ads Regulation, Indonesia’s Obsession With Milk (MBG)

52:30 — Policies & Changes Needed: Maternity Leave & Milk Banks

01:00:24 — Advice & Medically Backed Tips For Moms Breastfeeding

01:06:27 — When To Wean?

01:16:01 — The Sexualization & Double Standards Of Breastfeeding

01:20:35 — Government Regulations & Programs For Nia’s Indonesian Dream