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Background: Stunting is a chronic nutritional problem in toddlers caused by inadequate nutritional intake and recurrent infections, especially in the First 1000 Days of Life (HPK). One of the main factors that influence the incidence of stunting is exclusive breastfeeding and maternal nutritional knowledge. Indonesia still faces a high prevalence of stunting, which if not addressed immediately can impact the quality of human resources in the future.Objective: This study aims to determine the relationship between maternal nutritional knowledge and the duration of exclusive breastfeeding with the incidence of stunting in infants aged 6–12 months in the working area of Kuala Bangka Health Center, Kualuh Hilir District, North Labuhan Batu Regency in 2021.Method: This study used a case control design with a sample of 110 respondents (55 cases and 55 controls) selected by purposive sampling. Data were collected through interviews using a structured questionnaire and processed using the Chi-Square test. Results: The results showed a significant relationship between the duration of exclusive breastfeeding and the incidence of stunting (p = 0.002; OR = 4.394; 95% CI = 1.709–11.295), where infants who were not exclusively breastfed had a 4.4 times greater risk of experiencing stunting than infants who received optimal exclusive breastfeeding. However, there was no significant relationship between maternal nutritional knowledge and the incidence of stunting (p = 0.233). Conclusion: The duration of exclusive breastfeeding was proven to be associated with the incidence of stunting, while maternal knowledge did not show a significant relationship. Stunting prevention efforts should focus on improving the practice of appropriate and comprehensive exclusive breastfeeding, accompanied by practice-based nutrition education that mothers can apply in childcare.

Child marriage remains a serious problem in Indonesia despite the revision of the Marriage Law, which raised the minimum age for marriage to 19 for both men and women through Law No. 16 of 2019. This practice remains widespread, especially in rural areas with a high prevalence due to economic and cultural factors, the existence of marriage dispensation mechanisms, and low legal literacy. The phenomenon of child marriage has multidimensional impacts, including reproductive health risks, high school dropout rates, low quality human resources, economic vulnerability, and psychological problems that can ultimately lead to high divorce rates and intergenerational structural poverty. Through Community Service Activities (PKM), prevention efforts are carried out by providing legal education and outreach regarding the risks of early marriage. Methods used include lectures, presentations, modeling, role plays, and small group discussions involving teenagers, parents, traditional leaders, and religious leaders. The results of the activities showed a significant increase in legal understanding, where 85% of participants were aware of the minimum age for marriage according to the latest regulations. Furthermore, there was increased awareness of the negative impacts of child marriage and a growing commitment from community leaders to continue ongoing outreach. The conclusion of this activity confirmed that marriage law education is an effective strategy in raising public awareness. However, preventing child marriage cannot rely solely on legal outreach; it needs to be strengthened through cross-sector collaboration, integration of materials into the school curriculum, family economic empowerment, and strengthening the role of religious and traditional leaders in shaping social opinion. Therefore, efforts to prevent early marriage require a more holistic, participatory, and sustainable strategy to protect children's rights and realize the development of a quality future generation.

Child marriage remains a serious problem in Indonesia despite the revision of the Marriage Law, which raised the minimum age for marriage to 19 for both men and women through Law No. 16 of 2019. This practice remains widespread, especially in rural areas with a high prevalence due to economic and cultural factors, the existence of marriage dispensation mechanisms, and low legal literacy. The phenomenon of child marriage has multidimensional impacts, including reproductive health risks, high school dropout rates, low quality human resources, economic vulnerability, and psychological problems that can ultimately lead to high divorce rates and intergenerational structural poverty. Through Community Service Activities (PKM), prevention efforts are carried out by providing legal education and outreach regarding the risks of early marriage. Methods used include lectures, presentations, modeling, role plays, and small group discussions involving teenagers, parents, traditional leaders, and religious leaders. The results of the activities showed a significant increase in legal understanding, where 85% of participants were aware of the minimum age for marriage according to the latest regulations. Furthermore, there was increased awareness of the negative impacts of child marriage and a growing commitment from community leaders to continue ongoing outreach. The conclusion of this activity confirmed that marriage law education is an effective strategy in raising public awareness. However, preventing child marriage cannot rely solely on legal outreach; it needs to be strengthened through cross-sector collaboration, integration of materials into the school curriculum, family economic empowerment, and strengthening the role of religious and traditional leaders in shaping social opinion. Therefore, efforts to prevent early marriage require a more holistic, participatory, and sustainable strategy to protect children's rights and realize the development of a quality future generation.

Rapid technological advancements have brought convenience to various fields, including healthcare. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative joint disease that often affects the knees and hips, particularly in the elderly, and is a major cause of pain, joint dysfunction, and reduced quality of life. The prevalence of OA increases with age, with risk factors such as obesity, excessive activity, and muscle weakness. Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate treatment. This study aims to develop a diagnostic system for inflammatory arthritis, specifically osteoarthritis, using the Dempster-Shafer method. This method was chosen because of its ability to combine various evidence and expert beliefs to produce a more accurate diagnosis. By utilizing mathematical proof theory, this system is expected to assist medical personnel in detecting OA symptoms more efficiently. The research findings are expected to contribute to the healthcare sector, particularly in improving the accuracy of osteoarthritis diagnosis, allowing for earlier and more appropriate treatment. This system can also be a supporting tool for doctors and patients in understanding joint health conditions.

Acinetobacter baumannii is a major pathogenic bacterium causing nosocomial infections, known to exhibit high levels of resistance to various antibiotic classes, including β-lactams and aminoglycosides. This widespread resistance poses a significant challenge in hospital patient management, particularly in cases of severe and difficult-to-treat infections. This study aimed to analyze the resistance patterns of A. baumannii to four types of antibiotics in patients with various blood types at Dr. Soeradji Tirtonegoro General Hospital, Klaten. The research method used was a qualitative approach with a case study design. Data were obtained through in-depth interviews with healthcare workers, analysis of patient medical records, and limited observation of clinical practice. The focus of the study was directed at the relationship between patient blood type and the level of antibiotic resistance of A. baumannii. The results showed variations in resistance patterns based on blood type. Patients with blood type AB showed the highest level of resistance to all tested antibiotics, with a prevalence of multidrug resistance (MDR) reaching 85%. In contrast, patients with blood type O showed the lowest resistance and the highest proportion of non-MDR isolates compared to other groups. These findings indicate the role of host factors, namely blood type, in influencing the level of resistance of A. baumannii. The suspected mechanisms involved include differences in surface antigens that influence bacterial adhesion, biofilm formation, and the host immune response. The practical implication of this study is the need to consider blood type as a factor in empirical antibiotic therapy, especially in cases of nosocomial infections caused by A. baumannii.

Type II diabetes mellitus (Type II DM) is a chronic disease that requires long-term self-care skills to prevent serious complications. However, many patients have difficulty managing blood sugar levels independently due to a lack of structured and ongoing education. The Student Creativity Program (PKM) aims to improve the self-care skills of Type II DM patients through an educational approach based on the Self-Care Deficit theory from Dorothea Orem. The activity was carried out in Bonto Ramba, the working area of the Tamalanrea Makassar Health Center, involving 35 participants (33 women and 2 men). Interventions were carried out through interactive counseling, demonstrations of diabetic foot wound care, practice simulations, and the distribution of easy-to-understand educational media. Evaluation was carried out using a pre-post test to measure knowledge improvement and an observation sheet to assess the ability of self-care practice. Results showed a significant improvement in participants' self-care knowledge and skills after the intervention. In addition, family involvement in assisting patients has also increased, strengthening the sustainability of self-care behavior. Participants gave positive feedback on the method of delivering material that was contextual and relevant to daily life. The supportive-educational approach used has been proven effective in empowering patients and building awareness of the importance of self-control of health conditions. This program not only contributes to improving the quality of life of Type II DM patients, but also strengthens the role of the family as the main support in the treatment process. In conclusion, structured education based on Orem theory can be used as an intervention model that can be replicated in other areas with high prevalence of DM, as a promotive and preventive strategy in community-based management of chronic diseases.

Depression in adolescents is a significant mental health issue in Indonesia, with its prevalence increasing every year. Adolescence is a transitional period marked by complex physical, social, and psychological changes. During this phase, adolescents often face emotional instability, academic pressure, social demands, and confusion in establishing self-identity. These factors can trigger prolonged stress and increase the risk of depression. Appropriate prevention and intervention efforts are crucial to address this issue. One approach that has proven effective is art-based group therapy. Art therapy provides a space for adolescents to express their thoughts and feelings creatively through visual media, which can help them understand themselves, manage their emotions, and build social skills. This study used the Systematic Literature Review method to identify, analyze, and synthesize the results of studies related to the effectiveness of art therapy on adolescent mental health. Data sources were obtained from various national and international journals relevant to the keywords "Art Therapy", "adolescent depression", and "mental health". The results of the literature review indicate that art therapy consistently has positive impacts, including reducing depressive symptoms, increasing self-confidence, strengthening interpersonal skills, and developing emotional intelligence. The creative process in this therapy encourages adolescents to be more open, able to process emotional experiences, and find positive ways to deal with problems. Based on these findings, Art Therapy is recommended for ongoing implementation in schools and communities as part of mental health programs. This intervention serves not only as a means of recovery but also as a preventative measure in building adolescents' psychological resilience, enabling them to grow and develop optimally amidst the challenges of modern life.

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and obesity, pose significant health risks for the elderly in Indonesia, including those in Aneuk Paya Village, Lhoknga District, Aceh Besar. These conditions, if left unmanaged, can lead to severe complications, impacting the quality of life of older adults. This community service project aims to improve elderly individuals' understanding of NCDs, as well as their prevention and management, through educational initiatives carried out at the Integrated Health Post (Posbindu). The activities involved interactive counseling sessions, health assessments including blood pressure monitoring, and measurements of body weight, height, waist circumference, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels. The community service event, conducted on July 22, 2025, revealed a significant improvement in the elderly participants’ knowledge about NCDs. Notably, 83% of the participants gained a better understanding of the prevention of NCDs, while 70% reported improved knowledge regarding blood sugar and blood pressure management. Moreover, there was a noticeable increase in the number of elderly individuals attending regular Posbindu visits, which suggests a growing commitment to managing their health. Health education through Posbindu has proven to be an effective tool in raising awareness and changing health behaviors among the elderly, helping to prevent NCD complications. The project demonstrates the pivotal role of Posbindu not only in promoting NCD prevention but also in providing continuous support to the elderly in managing their health, ultimately enhancing their quality of life. This initiative highlights the importance of local health programs in addressing the growing prevalence of NCDs in elderly populations and emphasizes the need for further community-based health interventions.

Cough and flu are common health problems experienced by the public, with high prevalence across various age groups. The widespread practice of self-medication in the community highlighted the need for proper education regarding the rational and appropriate selection of medications. This educational activity was conducted at two strategic locations: the Car Free Day (CFD) in Solo and Taman Jaya Wijaya in Mojosongo. The method involved direct socialization, distribution of educational leaflets, and interactive question-and-answer sessions. The education focused on the differences between dry and productive coughs, appropriate medication choices, flu medicine content, and the use of natural remedies such as herbal treatments. A total of 41 participants from diverse backgrounds joined the activity enthusiastically. The results showed an increase in public understanding of cough classifications, medicine components, and the importance of reading drug labels before purchase. The sessions also emphasized the need to match medications with symptoms and advised consulting healthcare professionals if symptoms did not improve within three days. Positive responses from participants indicated that direct education effectively raised awareness and encouraged more rational and safe self-medication practices.

Cough and flu are common health problems experienced by the public, with high prevalence across various age groups. The widespread practice of self-medication in the community highlighted the need for proper education regarding the rational and appropriate selection of medications. This educational activity was conducted at two strategic locations: the Car Free Day (CFD) in Solo and Taman Jaya Wijaya in Mojosongo. The method involved direct socialization, distribution of educational leaflets, and interactive question-and-answer sessions. The education focused on the differences between dry and productive coughs, appropriate medication choices, flu medicine content, and the use of natural remedies such as herbal treatments. A total of 41 participants from diverse backgrounds joined the activity enthusiastically. The results showed an increase in public understanding of cough classifications, medicine components, and the importance of reading drug labels before purchase. The sessions also emphasized the need to match medications with symptoms and advised consulting healthcare professionals if symptoms did not improve within three days. Positive responses from participants indicated that direct education effectively raised awareness and encouraged more rational and safe self-medication practices.

 In Indonesia, the prevalence of genital infections due to poor genital hygiene is estimated to reach 90–100 cases per 100,000 population per year. Globally, approximately 75% of women have experienced vaginal discharge at least once in their lifetime, 45% of them have experienced it more than once, and approximately 25% of women in Europe have experienced vaginal discharge. In Indonesia, 75% of women have experienced vaginal discharge at least once, and 45% have experienced it more than once. This condition shows the importance of education about reproductive organ hygiene, especially for adolescent girls who are experiencing puberty. This community service activity aims to increase the knowledge of female students of SMPN 1 Sungai Tebelian about menstrual hygiene behavior through structured counseling. The activity implementation method includes four stages, namely (1) initial survey, (2) approach to the school, (3) activity socialization, and (4) presentation of counseling materials. Knowledge measurement was carried out before and after the activity using a questionnaire, then analyzed using a Paired Sample Test. The results showed that before the counseling, all respondents (37 female students) were in the sufficient knowledge category (100%). After the counseling and post-test, all respondents experienced an increase in knowledge so that they were in the good category (100%). The results of the Paired Sample Test analysis showed a Sig. (2-tailed) value of 0.000 (<0.05), which indicated a significant difference between the pre-test and post-test scores. The conclusion of this activity is that health counseling has a positive and significant influence on increasing female students' knowledge about menstrual hygiene behavior. Education that is carried out interactively and adapted to the characteristics of adolescents has proven effective in encouraging better understanding, so it is hoped that it can prevent reproductive health problems in adolescent girls in the future.

 In Indonesia, the prevalence of genital infections due to poor genital hygiene is estimated to reach 90–100 cases per 100,000 population per year. Globally, approximately 75% of women have experienced vaginal discharge at least once in their lifetime, 45% of them have experienced it more than once, and approximately 25% of women in Europe have experienced vaginal discharge. In Indonesia, 75% of women have experienced vaginal discharge at least once, and 45% have experienced it more than once. This condition shows the importance of education about reproductive organ hygiene, especially for adolescent girls who are experiencing puberty. This community service activity aims to increase the knowledge of female students of SMPN 1 Sungai Tebelian about menstrual hygiene behavior through structured counseling. The activity implementation method includes four stages, namely (1) initial survey, (2) approach to the school, (3) activity socialization, and (4) presentation of counseling materials. Knowledge measurement was carried out before and after the activity using a questionnaire, then analyzed using a Paired Sample Test. The results showed that before the counseling, all respondents (37 female students) were in the sufficient knowledge category (100%). After the counseling and post-test, all respondents experienced an increase in knowledge so that they were in the good category (100%). The results of the Paired Sample Test analysis showed a Sig. (2-tailed) value of 0.000 (<0.05), which indicated a significant difference between the pre-test and post-test scores. The conclusion of this activity is that health counseling has a positive and significant influence on increasing female students' knowledge about menstrual hygiene behavior. Education that is carried out interactively and adapted to the characteristics of adolescents has proven effective in encouraging better understanding, so it is hoped that it can prevent reproductive health problems in adolescent girls in the future.

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) remains a significant public health challenge in Indonesia, with the increasing prevalence of cases every year. One of the key methods of controlling the spread of DHF is to target the vector, Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, by eradicating their larvae. However, the widespread and continuous use of chemical larvicides has raised concerns regarding the development of mosquito resistance and environmental pollution. This community service activity aimed to provide students at Duta Karya Vocational High School with knowledge and practical skills to use natural, eco-friendly alternatives for controlling mosquito larvae, focusing on papaya seeds (Carica papaya) and alum as natural larvicides. The methods for this activity included interactive counseling, a demonstration on how to produce larvicides using papaya seeds and alum, and an engaging question-and-answer session. Thirty 12th-grade students from the Pharmacy class participated in this activity. The results revealed that the activity was highly effective in increasing the students' understanding and practical ability to independently create and apply natural larvicides. The students expressed a high level of enthusiasm and interest in the topic, actively participating in the discussions and demonstrations. As a result of this community service, the school has expressed interest in incorporating this activity into its School Health Unit (UKS) work program, which will further promote the use of natural, sustainable methods for controlling mosquito populations. The students, now equipped with the necessary skills, are ready to become "jumantik" cadres—community health volunteers responsible for monitoring and preventing mosquito larvae development. This initiative also raised awareness about utilizing organic waste, such as papaya seeds, to create valuable products for the prevention of DHF.

Stunting remains a chronic nutritional issue and a significant public health challenge in Indonesia, particularly in rural areas such as Jurang Village, Temanggung Regency. One of the key contributing factors to the high prevalence of stunting is the low level of maternal knowledge regarding balanced nutrition and the appropriate practice of providing supplementary feeding (Pemberian Makanan Tambahan or PMT) for children under five. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of PMT menu leaflet media as a tool to increase mothers’ knowledge and awareness regarding stunting prevention. The research was conducted through a series of community-based surveys during Posyandu (integrated health post) activities across several neighborhood units (Rukun Warga or RW). These surveys identified cases of stunting and assessed the educational needs of mothers with young children. Based on the findings, a culturally and contextually adapted leaflet was developed, containing essential information about stunting, its early signs, the importance of PMT, and practical, nutritious recipes made from locally available ingredients. To expand accessibility, the leaflet also included a QR code linked to a digital e-book featuring 54 variations of PMT menus. The educational materials were distributed through door-to-door visits, accompanied by the direct provision of supplementary food, enabling immediate practice of the knowledge shared. Post-intervention results showed a significant improvement in maternal understanding of stunting and nutrition, as well as positive feedback regarding the clarity, relevance, and usefulness of the leaflet. The culturally tailored approach and integration of digital resources further enhanced engagement and knowledge retention. In conclusion, the PMT leaflet proved to be an effective, practical, low-cost, and replicable educational intervention to support community-based stunting prevention efforts in Jurang Village. This approach offers a promising model for similar rural areas facing high stunting rates across Indonesia.

Nutritional problems in toddlers remain a major challenge in Indonesia, particularly in rural areas such as Paga Village, Sikka Regency. Nutritional problems are not only caused by a lack of nutritious food intake but are also exacerbated by the high incidence of infectious diseases, inadequate parenting, low public nutrition knowledge, limited access to health services, and low socioeconomic conditions. These factors directly and indirectly impact children's nutritional status. One intervention effort that can be implemented to address this problem is through the provision of locally-based food supplements (PMT), which aims to improve children's nutritional intake and encourage food independence and sustainable family nutritional security. This study aims to determine the effect of providing locally-based food supplements as a nutritional intervention on improving the nutritional status of toddlers experiencing malnutrition. The research method used was an observational analytic approach with a cross-sectional design approach. The sample in this study were toddlers with malnutrition status who received an intervention in the form of local food-based PMT. The results showed an improvement in nutritional status in toddlers after receiving PMT. A total of 46 toddlers who were initially malnourished experienced an improvement to normal nutritional status after the intervention. These results indicate that providing locally-based food supplements has a positive effect on the nutritional status of toddlers. In conclusion, local food-based PMT has proven effective as a nutritional intervention in improving the nutritional status of toddlers in Paga Village. Such programs need to be further developed and supported by various parties to reduce the prevalence of malnutrition in the community and strengthen local food self-sufficiency.

At the Sumatera Province Tanjung Morawa District exactly at Bangun Rejo Vilage, The high prevalence of anxiety among pregnant women in this region is influenced by high salt consumption exceeding recommendations, irregular eating patterns due to the background of the majority of the population as fishermen, and low compliance with pharmacological therapy due to concerns about side effects on the fetus. As a mitigation effort, non-pharmacological interventions were carried out in the form of music therapy and education about healthy eating patterns. This Community Service Program (PKM) aims to increase knowledge and reduce anxiety levels in pregnant women through lecture methods and the application of music therapy. The implementation method includes health education and structured music therapy. The results of the intervention showed an 89% increase in knowledge of pregnant women regarding diet, as well as a decrease in anxiety levels with an average value (mean) of 1.17 in the third to fourth week of therapy.

Background: Primary dysmenorrhea is abdominal pain, cramps and back pain experienced by women at the beginning of menstruation for 48-72 hours. This condition is most often experienced by women in their late teens to young adults (15-25 years) due to optimization of uterine function so that prostaglandin secretion increases. In Indonesia, the prevalence of primary dysmenorrhea reaches 54.89%, with a significant impact on adolescent activities. One of the effective non-pharmacological methods to overcome primary dysmenorrhea is abdominal effleurage massage, which is performed directly on the site of pain so that endogenous analgesics (endorphins) are released and pain transmission to the cerebral cortex is inhibited. Purposes: To analyze the effect of abdominal effleurage massage on reducing primary dysmenorrhea in adolescents. Research method: This study used a quantitative method with a pre-experimental one group pretest posttest design method. The population of this study was 45 adolescents. The sample was taken using a simple random sampling technique of 21 female students who experienced primary dysmenorrhea. Data collection was carried out using the NRS (Numeric Rating Scale) pain scale observation sheet. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test. Results: Based on the analysis test using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test, a significance value of 0.00 (p <0.05) was obtained, which means Ha was accepted. In other words, abdominal effleurage massage has an effect on reducing primary dysmenorrhea in adolescents. Conclusion: There is an effect of abdominal effleurage massage on reducing primary dysmenorrhea in adolescents.

Indonesia, as an agricultural country, has a large population working in the agricultural sector. Agricultural activities often involve the use of chemicals that can cause skin disorders, one of which is contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis is an occupational disease with a high prevalence, both globally and nationally. As a form of concern for the increasing number of dermatitis cases among farmers, a community service activity was conducted in Mlati Village, Grobogan Regency. This activity aimed to increase farmers' awareness and knowledge regarding contact dermatitis prevention. The intervention included educational sessions, interactive discussions, role-plays, pre- and post-tests, and the distribution of skin health information leaflets. The activity was carried out by the Health Promotion Team from the Faculty of Medicine, Semarang State University. The evaluation results showed an increase in participants' understanding of the symptoms of contact dermatitis by 11.86% of the 21 participants who attended. Materials considered important by participants included the importance of maintaining personal hygiene after contact with chemicals, as well as the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) during work. The participants' enthusiasm was also evident in their active participation in the discussion sessions and hands-on practice. However, there was still a lack of in-depth understanding of skin health care. This demonstrates the need for regular follow-up education to reinforce the program's positive impact. Overall, these activities demonstrate the critical importance of community-based health promotion in reducing the risk of occupational skin diseases and encouraging healthier and safer behavior changes in farmers.

Anemia in pregnancy remains a public health problem in Indonesia, with a prevalence of 48.9% (Riskesdas, 2018). Low adherence to iron and folic acid tablet (TTD) consumption is one of the main causes of high anemia rates among pregnant women. This community service activity aimed to improve TTD consumption compliance among pregnant women through interactive educational media at Sarfina Sembiring Clinic in 2025. The implementation method applied a participatory learning approach, consisting of preparation, education delivery, evaluation, and follow-up. A total of 30 pregnant women participated in the activity. Pre-test and post-test evaluations showed an increase in knowledge scores from 62.5 to 85.3 (+36.4%), while compliance with TTD consumption increased from 46.7% to 83.3% (+36.6%). Additionally, 90% of participants stated that interactive media was easier to understand compared to conventional lecture methods. These findings indicate that interactive educational media effectively improves knowledge and compliance with TTD consumption among pregnant women, making it a viable alternative for health education to support anemia prevention programs in Indonesia.

Bekasam is a traditional fermented fish-based food popular in various regions in Indonesia, including Batanghari, Jambi. This product is produced through a spontaneous fermentation process that utilizes the activity of microorganisms, particularly lactic acid bacteria (LAB), which play an important role in the formation of distinctive flavors, food safety, and potential health benefits. One type of fish used is lambak fish (Labiobarbus ocellatus), which is commonly found in local waters. Given the high prevalence of cardiovascular disease associated with cholesterol levels, exploring the probiotic potential of local fermented foods presents a strategic opportunity to support public health. This study aims to isolate and identify LAB from bekasam lambak fish from Mersam, Batanghari, and evaluate its initial potential as a candidate for cholesterol-lowering probiotics. The research method was carried out in the laboratory through a series of dilutions (10⁻¹–10⁻⁶) of bekasam samples, followed by cultivation on Nutrient Agar (NA) media using the pour and streak method. Incubation was carried out at 37°C for 24–48 hours. The growing colonies were then observed morphologically and tested using Gram staining. Observations revealed spherical, milky-white colonies with Gram-positive rod-shaped characteristics, indicating they likely belonged to the Lactobacillus genus. This genus is known to lower cholesterol through bile acid binding and free cholesterol assimilation mechanisms in the digestive tract. These findings reinforce the notion that bekasam lambak fish contains local LAB isolates that have the potential to be developed as a natural probiotic raw material. This potential can be utilized in the development of functional fermented food products or nutraceuticals that not only maintain the traditional value of bekasam but also provide preventative health benefits, particularly in controlling cholesterol levels.