"We must guarantee equal access for every Indonesian woman," she said while opening the National Women's Forum themed "Safeguarding National Resilience" in Jakarta on Wednesday.
Fauzi stated that the Indonesian government remains committed to promoting gender-responsive policies, including gender mainstreaming across all development sectors, strengthening protections for women and children, and increasing women's participation in decision-making.
These efforts also include integrating gender perspectives into climate change policies and sustainable development initiatives.
"This commitment aligns with our efforts to realize an inclusive, just, and sustainable Indonesia," she added.
The minister stressed that women are not merely beneficiaries of development but strategic partners in shaping the nation’s progress.
“Women are a central pillar because they serve as the first and primary educators for children within the family,” she noted.
Fauzi further explained that in the economic sector, women play a key role in driving micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and supporting family economies. Socially, they strengthen solidarity and cohesion.
In leadership, she added, women act as inclusive decision-makers.
Through the National Women’s Forum, the ministry aims to build collective commitment to strengthening women’s roles, fostering innovation in empowerment programs, and promoting sustainable cross-sector collaboration.
“Empowering women is a necessity, not an option. Gender equality must be the foundation of development, not just a topic of discussion. National resilience starts from the family, with women as the cornerstone. High-quality development is impossible without gender equality,” she concluded.
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Translator: Anita Permata, Raka Adji
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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