MAKASSAR – The Faculty of Public Health (FKM) at Hasanuddin University (Unhas) has once again strengthened its international standing by hosting The 3rd International Conference on Nutrition and Public Health (ICNPH). Held on April 8-9, 2026, at the Unhas Hotel and Convention, this prestigious event became a global hub for nutrition experts, health practitioners, and academics to discuss the future of sustainable public health.
Under the central theme “Unpacking the Triple Burden of Malnutrition: Holistic Approaches to Nutrition Challenges”, the conference highlighted the “triple burden” phenomenon currently affecting many developing nations, including Indonesia. This burden encompasses undernutrition (stunting and wasting), micronutrient deficiencies, and overweight or obesity—often occurring simultaneously within the same community or even the same household.
Exploring Gut Microbiota: The New Frontier of Modern Health
One of the most captivating sessions focused on the crucial role of gut health in human quality of life. During his presentation, Prof. Andrew Holmes emphasized that the ecosystem of bacteria in the gut (microbiota) is the primary foundation of metabolism.
“We do not just eat for ourselves; we eat for the trillions of microbes living within us. Maintaining the balance of this gut ecosystem is key to ensuring metabolic processes run perfectly and preventing various degenerative diseases,” he stated before hundreds of participants.
This discussion opened new perspectives, suggesting that nutritional intervention is not merely about the quantity of food intake, but how that food interacts with human genetics and the microbiome to create optimal health resilience.
Addressing Climate Crisis and Food Security
Moving beyond internal metabolism, the 3rd ICNPH expanded its scope to an external challenge: climate change. Experts at the conference agreed that the climate crisis has a direct impact on consumption patterns and the availability of nutritious food.
Extreme weather changes affect planting cycles and the nutritional quality of agricultural yields. Therefore, future public health strategies must integrate environmental health approaches with nutritional policies. Cross-sector collaboration is essential to ensure that all levels of society maintain access to functional foods amidst an increasingly dynamic global environment.
The Free Nutritious Meal Program: Towards Golden Indonesia 2045
On the second day, participants turned their attention to Indonesia’s national strategic initiative: the Free Nutritious Meal Program. Academics from FKM Unhas and international experts analyzed how this program could serve as a catalyst for drastically reducing stunting rates while enhancing the quality of human resources in preparation for the “Golden Indonesia 2045” vision.
The program is seen as a concrete step in both specific and sensitive nutritional interventions, requiring rigorous scientific oversight to ensure accurate distribution and that nutritional content meets global health standards.
Real Contributions to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The hosting of the 3rd ICNPH by FKM Unhas is a clear manifestation of the university’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Specifically, the conference contributes directly to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) by addressing malnutrition and achieving food security, and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by formulating preventive health strategies through holistic nutrition.
Furthermore, by involving experts from renowned institutions such as UNICEF and various international universities, this event strengthens SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Through research collaboration and global knowledge exchange, the conference aims to foster innovative solutions that can be applied locally and globally to end all forms of hunger and improve societal well-being worldwide.
Future Outlook for Public Health Nutrition
The Chairperson of the 3rd ICNPH, Dr. Rahayu Indriasari, SKM., MPH., CN., Ph.D., expressed pride in the enthusiasm of participants from across the globe. She hopes that the outcomes of this conference will move beyond academic discussion and transform into applicable policies.
“ICNPH is more than just an academic forum. It is a call to action for all of us to view nutritional issues through a wider lens—from the molecular level in the gut to global food system policies,” she remarked.
With the success of this event, FKM Unhas has reaffirmed its role as a progressive educational institution responsive to global health issues, while simultaneously solidifying Makassar’s position as a premier destination for prestigious international conferences.