Tangerang, Banten (ANTARA) - Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Minister Arifah Choiri Fauzi emphasized the need to strengthen the role of women in all sectors by providing equal access to employment, healthcare, and political participation.

In addition, Fauzi, during the commemoration of National Mother's Day in Tangerang, Banten, on Sunday, stresses the need to ensure women's protection from all forms of violence.

She noted that the 96th Mother's Day commemoration in 2024 carries the theme "Women Greet, Women Empowered Towards Golden Indonesia 2045."

"This theme serves as a powerful reminder of the crucial role women play in shaping the nation's future. It presents an opportunity for us to unite our efforts towards achieving a 'Golden Indonesia 2045,' with women serving as the cornerstone of our development," she stated.

Fauzi further emphasized that the commemoration of Mother's Day in Indonesia is not merely an occasion to express gratitude for the extraordinary service of mothers but also to honor all Indonesian women for their invaluable roles, dedication, and contributions to their families, society, nation, and state.

The history of Hari Ibu (Mother's Day) traces its origins to the first Women's Congress held in Yogyakarta from December 22-25, 1928, a significant event within a series of historical milestones in the nation's pursuit of independence during the Dutch East Indies era.

These women activists fought not only for the nation's freedom, which Indonesia ultimately achieved in 1945, but also challenged the deeply entrenched patriarchal system of that time.

"This marked a pivotal moment in the women's movement, ushering in a new era of women's activism in support of Indonesian independence," Fauzi noted.

The inaugural Women's Congress brought together approximately 1,000 participants from 30 organizations across Java and Sumatra to discuss critical issues such as education and women's empowerment. Their agenda also advocated for the eradication of illiteracy, child marriage, women trafficking, and polygamy.

Translator: Anita Permata Dewi, Yashinta Difa
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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