JAKARTA - Behind the roar of magnificent development, there are narratives about courage. Yesterday, an emotional and factual note entitled "Nyala Harapan: Menolak Tunduk" was officially launched by the Women's Solidarity organization. This book is not just a report, but a portrait of the struggle of women in various corners of the archipelago who are defending their living space and identity.

This moment was also warmly welcomed by the Ministry of Empowerment of Women and Child Protection (KemenPPPA). Through the spirit of collaboration, the government wants to ensure that the voices from the grassroots are the basis of a more inclusive policy.

Synergy to Protect Women's Rights

The issue of women is not an issue that can be solved alone. Margareth Robin Korwa, Assistant Deputy from the Ministry of PPPA, emphasized the importance of a pentahelix approach - a cooperative effort between the government, community, and various other parties.

The Ministry of PPPA encourages that the narrative in "Nyala Harapan" not only resonates in the city center, but also "knocks on the door" of those affected. The goal is one: for policymakers in the region to see firsthand how a major project impacts the daily lives of a mother, farmer, and indigenous women.

Three Portraits of Struggle that Stir the Heart

This book tells the stories of 12 communities, but there are several stories that give an idea of how closely women are connected to their land and water:

Makassar Coastal Women: The development of Makassar New Port has apparently brought a silent impact on women on the coast. They face structural challenges that threaten the livelihood from the sea, which has long been the mainstay of family life.

Tradition Keeper in Poco Leok, NTT: In Manggarai Regency, the geothermal project has an impact on the loss of space to plant traditional food and medicine. For them, losing land is not just a matter of economics, but also the loss of identity as an indigenous woman.

Central Kalimantan farmers: The People's Rice Planting Program, which involves a militaristic approach, leaves concerns about collective trauma for female farmers. They miss the sense of security when managing ancestral land.

"Their source of livelihood is gone. They are also forced to be cut off from their identity as indigenous women," said Armayanti Sanusi, Chairperson of the National Executive Body for Women's Solidarity, as reported by ANTARA.

Glimpse a More Powerful Future

This annual note is a reminder to all of us that true development should not leave anyone behind, especially women who are often the guardians of food security and culture in their homes.

Hopefully, through honest dialogue between the community and the local government, future development can be more friendly to women and the environment. Because in the end, "Nyala Harapan" will continue to shine as long as there is room for women to speak and be empowered in their own land.


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