Deputy District Head of Muara Enim, Sumarni, stated on Thursday, July 31, that the local government was recognized for its success in promoting gender-inclusive economic development and received the 2025 Mata Lokal Award from South Sumatra Governor Herman Deru.
"I personally received the award during the evaluation event organized by the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (Gapki) South Sumatra chapter and Tribun Sumsel at the 2025 Mata Lokal Awards in Palembang on Wednesday (July 30)," she remarked.
The Muara Enim District Government was acknowledged for its efforts to promote inclusive economic growth from a gender perspective, including its advocacy and protection of women working in palm oil plantations, ensuring their fundamental rights are upheld without discrimination or violence, thereby boosting the region’s economic development.
The local government remains committed to protecting the rights of female workers, especially in informal and labor-intensive sectors such as plantations, trade, and home industries.
"We continue to encourage companies operating in Muara Enim to respect and fulfill the rights of all workers, regardless of gender," she stated.
Currently, seven palm oil companies in Muara Enim District have provided health and employment insurance protection for 841 workers.
In addition, the Muara Enim District Government, through its relevant agencies, regularly conducts training and mentoring programs for workers, including the wives of fishermen who have not yet received access to social protection.
As a female regional leader, she hopes to optimize her role in protecting and empowering women workers to strengthen inclusive local economic growth through the participation of all stakeholders.
Moreover, she noted that since the issuance of Muara Enim District Regulation No. 2 of 2022 on Gender Mainstreaming, all parties are expected to support gender equality, including enforcing labor regulations that promote women’s rights.
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Translator: Primayanti
Editor: Arie Novarina
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