Jakarta (ANTARA News) - The women of Indonesia play an important role in various sectors and also determine the progress of the nation, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono said.

Speaking at a function to mark the peak event of the 83th National Mothers` Day at Balai Kartini in South Jakarta on Thursday, the president said the women should also have a wider access to improving their capability.

"By understanding the process and direction of the women movement, we know that the struggle of women remains relevant to date in their effort to improve the life of the nation," the president said.

The head of state pointed out that the role of women in the field of education, and the tree planting and tree keeping movement should highly be appreciated.

Therefore the president noted that the women should continue to step up their role in various fields which at present needed a serious attention.

"I am optimistic that the women of Indonesia are able to become

forerunners in numerous successful development programs," the president said.

He also encouraged the women to play their role in keeping clean the environment.

"We have to keep our environment clean, because if it is dirty, it will affect our hearts and minds as well. Therefore, together let us make our environment and our country clean," the president said.(*)

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Editor: Jafar M Sidik
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