Empowering Breastfeeding Support : Establishment of Malaysian Lactation Consultants Association (MALCA)
Greetings to all IBCLCs in Malaysia and abroad, as well as those who are interested in becoming IBCLCs,
In conjunction with IBCLC Day 2024 on 6th March 2024, we are honored to welcome and announce the establishment of the Malaysian Lactation Consultants Association (MALCA). Our civil society organization (CSO) stems from a diverse group of individuals hailing from various parts of Malaysia, each bringing unique perspectives, experiences, and expertise to the table. United by our passion for breastfeeding and human lactation, we are dedicated to creating awareness about the importance of IBCLCs and the specialized knowledge and clinical expertise they possess. Our shared mission is to advocate for breastfeeding protection, promote maternal and infant health, and support families in their breastfeeding journey.
What is an IBCLC?
An International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant® (IBCLC®), is a healthcare professional who specializes in breastfeeding and human lactation. IBCLCs are certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners® (IBLCE®), an internationally recognized credentialing body. They possess comprehensive knowledge and clinical skills in lactation management, breastfeeding education, and counseling, making them uniquely qualified to support breastfeeding families.
IBCLCs work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, and community organizations. They provide evidence-based care and support to breastfeeding parents and their infants, addressing a wide range of lactation challenges and concerns.
As advocates for breastfeeding, IBCLCs play a crucial role in promoting and protecting breastfeeding rights and ensuring that mothers and their families receive the support they need to achieve their breastfeeding goals.
Our CSO aims to serve as a platform for IBCLCs in Malaysia to collaborate, share resources, and advocate for breastfeeding-friendly policies and practices. We are committed to advancing the field of lactation consultancy and promoting the well-being of breastfeeding families in our communities. Our mission is aligned with our MALCA tagline, ‘Cultivating Professionalism Towards Skilled Lactation Care,’ which emphasizes our dedication to fostering professionalism among IBCLCs and ensuring effective lactation care for all breastfeeding families.
According to www.iblce.org, to date Malaysia has 50 IBCLCs. We would like to extend our invitation to all existing IBCLCs to join us in this important endeavor. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of mothers, infants, and families through our collective expertise and dedication to breastfeeding support.
Those interested in pursuing a profession as an IBCLC are encouraged to consult the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners’ (IBLCE) official Public Registry of IBCLCs. The registry offers an extensive compilation of IBCLCs who have obtained certification on a global scale, making it an invaluable asset for those in search of lactation support.
Thank you for your interest and support as we embark on this journey to promote breastfeeding excellence and empower families through lactation consultancy.
Sincerely,
Malaysian Lactation Consultants Association (MALCA) Committee Members 2024-2026.
6th March 2024
Join MALCA today! https://bit.ly/MALCA2u