​An optimal breastfeeding practice can have a positive impact for the mother and child's health in the short and long term. Research showed that breastfeeding provides long-lasting health benefits including reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes. This was underlined by the Minister of Health in a message in conjunction with the World Breastfeeding Week 2024.

According to Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar, since the introduction of the Maternity Leave Regulation in 2011, the rate of exclusive breastfeeding in the country increased from 29 per cent in 2011 to 47 per cent in 2019. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the breastfeeding rate in the country, which dropped to 38 per cent in 2023. The figure is a cause for concern, and action must be taken immediately. Hence, Brunei Darussalam must improve the breastfeeding support system to reach the target of exclusive breastfeeding at a rate of 50 per cent by 2025 according to the World Health Organization's Global Nutrition Target 2025.

Yang Berhormat added that the Ministry of Health will further enhance the implementation of the Breastfeeding Friendly Hospital Initiative within the mother and child health services nationwide. The ministry also supported the proposal for the establishment of the mother-to-mother support group to ensure continuous support within the community. Apart from that, the husband and family play a vital role to make breastfeeding practice a success including providing moral and emotional support. Employers also have an important role in creating a work environment that supports breastfeeding.

This year's celebration theme is 'Close the gap: Breastfeeding Support for All.'