Fatayat NU Celebrates its 76th Anniversary: A Moment to Strengthen Women's Dedication
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Central Executive Board of Fatayat NU commemorated its 76th anniversary at the Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta, marking a moment to reinforce the dedication of Nahdliyin women to society, the nation, and humanity.
“Fatayat is not just about making claims; it proves itself through concrete steps in empowering women in various fields, from religion and health to education and economic empowerment,” said Ela Siti Nuryamah, Secretary-General of the Central Executive Board of Fatayat NU, on Sunday.
The event also commemorated the 40th day after the passing of the late Margaret Aliyatul Maimunah, Chairperson of the Central Executive Board of Fatayat NU.
Ela stated that Fatayat NU’s long journey over the past 76 years has been built through the work of its members in various aspects of community life.
According to her, Fatayat NU members are not only present within the organisation but also actively engage with communities through social support, education, health initiatives, and economic empowerment for women.
The main strength of Fatayat NU lies in its dedicated members who continuously work at the grassroots level. The commitment of these members is a crucial asset in maintaining the continuity of the organisation’s mission amidst changing times.
Andi Majdah M. Zain, Special Staff to the Minister for Improving the Quality of Life of Women at the Ministry of Women Empowerment and Child Protection (KemenPPPA), highlighted the high prevalence of violence against women and children, digital parenting issues, and mental health concerns among young people.
Andi Majdah stated that Indonesia needs the presence of women’s organisations capable of addressing social challenges effectively, including issues related to the protection of women and children.
“Since its inception, Fatayat NU has demonstrated that Muslim women can be religious leaders, educators, social activists, community facilitators, guardians of Islamic values, and agents of change,” said Andi Majdah while delivering a speech on behalf of Minister of Women Empowerment and Child Protection Arifah Fauzi.
According to her, this situation requires the active involvement of female members at the grassroots level. Therefore, Fatayat NU is considered to have a strategic position in strengthening community-based social protection and family support.
“Indonesia needs women who are not only intelligent but also courageous, not only educated but also caring, not only active in organisations but also capable of providing solutions,” she said.
Andi Majdah also presented data on violence against women and children, which remains a cause for concern. According to the 2024 National Survey on Women’s Life Experiences, one in four women aged 15-64 has experienced physical and/or sexual violence at some point in their lives.
Meanwhile, according to the 2024 National Survey on Children and Adolescents’ Life Experiences, one in two children aged 13-17 has experienced at least one form of violence. This data, she said, is a shared responsibility that needs to be addressed seriously and sustainably.