Empowering Vulnerable Women, Muhammadiyah's MPKS Holds Sakinah House Ramadhan Retreat

Jakarta — Muhammadiyah’s Central Board for Social Welfare held a Sakinah House Ramadhan Retreat at Muhammadiyah’s Islamic Propagation Building in Jakarta. The programme, themed “Empowered Ramadhan: Building Self-Reliance and Honouring the Dignity of Vulnerable Communities,” brought together approximately 50 women from a total of 85 Sakinah House beneficiaries.

Participants came from various backgrounds of social vulnerability, including survivors of domestic violence, former commercial sex workers, and victims of human trafficking.

Faozan Amar, Vice Chair of Muhammadiyah’s Board for Social Welfare, stated that the organisation believes every individual has the opportunity to improve their life. Consequently, Muhammadiyah is committed to providing support and guidance.

“A good person is not someone who has never made mistakes, but someone who recognises their mistakes and strives to correct them,” Amar said.

He also referenced Qur’anic verse 13:11, which affirms that Allah will not change the condition of a people unless they strive to change it themselves.

Waode Herlina, a member of the Jakarta Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD), also attended the event and expressed her support.

“I understand what these women experience. I am moved and proud that Sakinah House members continue to pursue learning. I am ready to be part of Sakinah House,” the Commission B member said.

Mariman Darto, Chair of Muhammadiyah’s Board for Social Welfare, officially opened the programme and launched three new empowerment initiatives: Sakinah House Matahari Cooperative, Sakinah House Mentari Community Learning Centre, and Sakinah House Bersinar Training and Skills Institute.

According to Misran Lubis, Secretary of Sakinah House, the number of beneficiaries has now reached approximately 85 individuals. These programmes are expected to strengthen education, skills development, and economic independence for the female beneficiaries.