Training on breastfeeding counselling in Brunei Darussalam

Breastfeeding is the optimal method of infant feeding. Extensive research has demonstrated that breast milk not only fosters proper growth and cognitive development in infants, but also acts as a protective mechanism for both the child and the mother. Despite all the benefits, fewer than 1 in 2 infants worldwide are exclusively breastfed.

To promote breastfeeding, the World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) have jointly developed guidance on the “Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding”, which outlines the key policies to increase breastfeeding rates. Amongst others, they include the provision of appropriate counselling to mothers to support them, encourage breastfeeding, and help manage common difficulties.

WHO has collaborated with the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) to facilitate a comprehensive breastfeeding training for healthcare professionals in Brunei Darussalam, using the WHO training course, Infant and Young Child Feeding Counselling. This 6-day training workshop provided the key health-care professionals with essential knowledge and skills for providing breastfeeding counselling to mothers.

A practical session facilitated by Dr Zaharah Sulaiman (right) from the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA). Photo credit: Ministry of Health, Brunei Darussalam

The training covered a variety of topics, ranging from strategies to build confidence and provide support, to specialized areas such as enhancing breast milk production and addressing the challenges of feeding low-birth weight and sick babies. Beyond skills development, trainees also acquired fundamental breastfeeding knowledge, including key concepts regarding the significance of breastfeeding and the mechanics behind its functioning.

The participant feedback has been very positive. "I am very grateful that I could attend this course, as the last training on breastfeeding counselling was back in 2014," said Hairunnisa binti Awg Suboh, midwife nurse at the Hospital Suri Seri Begawan. "It has improved my breastfeeding knowledge and skills, and it also taught me how to give better advice on the correct attachment, positioning, and the benefits of breastfeeding, especially to young mothers."

"In the practical sessions we could apply the skills and realize the actual challenges," said Dr Faezah Binti Dato Hj Mohd Amin, Medical Officer at the Health Promotion Centre, Ministry of Health. "For example, good listening skills require more than just accepting the mother's concerns, and it is even more challenging to do it when in a rush.”

Group photo of the participants and facilitators in the Health Promotion Centre, Ministry of Health Brunei Darussalam. Photo credit: Ministry of Health, Brunei Darussalam

Recognizing the profound impact of breastfeeding on the health and well-being of infants and mothers alike, the Ministry of Health Brunei Darussalam has affirmed its commitment to expand and sustain efforts aimed at the protection, promotion, and support of breastfeeding. The training program organized by WHO and WABA represents an important step towards ensuring that health-care providers possess the necessary expertise to champion and facilitate optimal breastfeeding practices in the country.