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Unrest causing malnutrition: UN

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AFX-ASIA - April 9, 1999

Bangkok – Indonesia is suffering severe food shortages and growing malnutrition brought on by rising social unrest and a deep economic crisis, the United Nations said in a report.

In a new report issued here, a UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and World Food Program (WFP) mission called for more international food aid despite predicting a good rice harvest.

"The food supply situation continues to be affected by poor security and an escalation in civil unrest," it said, adding that there were wide variations in supply and prices across the strife-torn country.

"There are indications that markets are failing, as traders are reluctant to hold stocks or transport large consignments due to security concerns," the report said.

The economic crisis and large movements of people out of cities had eroded the livelihoods of much of the population, greatly increasing their vulnerability to food insecurity. "Food prices have risen sharply while purchasing power has fallen dramatically," the report added.

"The primary target for food assistance to the country should be children under five and expectant and lactating mothers in urban areas." The report said there was evidence of growing nutritional deficiencies among at-risk groups.

"It is recommended that international assistance be provided in support of local manufacture of wheat-based products such as noodles and blended foods." It said the prospects for rice production in 1999 appeared promising, with paddy production officially predicted at 48.6 million tonnes and planting set to begin in May.

"Aided by favourable rainfall and attractive produce prices, the main harvest is likely to be good." The solution to long-term food security in Indonesia lies in economic recovery, the report said.

"Although national and international measures are being taken to stimulate such recovery, the benefits are unlikely to be felt in the short term," it added.

"The government faces a tremendous challenge in ensuring greater food security to its population, especially the growing numbers of vulnerable poor people."

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