Ministry pushes for women-friendly ecosystem in palm oil sector

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection has called for efforts to build a women-friendly ecosystem in palm oil sector, including fulfilling maternity rights, providing childcare facilities and lactation rooms, and offering education for families and the surrounding communities.

"We want to ensure that women are not merely positioned as objects within the palm oil industry, but also as subjects of development that have equal access, participation, control, and benefits," the Ministry's Deputy for Gender Equality Amurwani Dwi Lestariningsih said here on Wednesday.

In a statement, Lestariningsih underscored that palm oil industry contributes significantly to the national economy and serves as a source of livelihood for many Indonesians.

However, she continued, women working in the sector still face various challenges, including limited access to resources and decision-making, as well as the fulfillment of women's rights in the workplace.

Related news: RI, Poland strengthen collaboration on women and children protection

In response, the Ministry continues to promote empowerment and protection for women in the palm oil sector by drafting the Gender Mainstreaming Guidelines for the Palm Oil Industry.

Lestariningsih explained gender mainstreaming in the palm oil sector is more than just upholding the principle of equality. It is a vital part of a development strategy that can boost women's productivity, strengthen family welfare, and drive sustainability in the industry.

"Therefore, a gender perspective must be integrated more systematically into the policies, programmes, and governance of the sector," she noted.

According to her, gender-responsive policies will support the creation of a safe, comfortable, and equitable workplace for women, while also strengthening family welfare and child development.

Related news: Ministry sets 3-year target for women empowerment in remote areas

Related news: Indonesia pushes equal access for women in education and work

Translator: Anita Permata, Raka Adji

Editor: Fransiska Ninditya

Copyright © ANTARA 2026