JAKARTA, RAKYAT NEWS – The Sarawak Ministry of Women, Childhood, and Community Well-being has expressed enthusiasm in learning best practices for women’s empowerment and child protection implemented by Indonesia’s Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection (KemenPPPA).

During a bilateral meeting in Jakarta, Sarawak’s Minister Dato Sri Hajah Fatimah Abdullah emphasized the importance of benchmarking Indonesia’s successful policies. “We aim to strengthen the quality of life for women and children by adopting effective strategies from KemenPPPA,” she stated.

One key focus of the discussion was Sarawak’s dedication to ensuring education for all children, including those from migrant worker families. Despite legal restrictions on migrant workers bringing their children, Sarawak has established Community Learning Centers to provide basic education.

“We recognize the challenges, so we collaborate with the government to ensure no child is left behind,” said Dato Sri Hajah Fatimah.

The minister highlighted Sarawak’s efforts in addressing poverty, gender-based violence, and citizenship issues for children of unregistered marriages. By 2026, Sarawak plans to offer free education, vocational training, and business capital for women.

“Indonesia’s progress in gender equality, especially in politics, is inspiring. We hope to replicate such advancements in Sarawak,” she added.

Indonesian Minister Arifah Fauzi welcomed the opportunity for deeper cooperation, emphasizing the shared goals of both nations. “This meeting is a pivotal step toward concrete, sustainable collaboration in women and child empowerment across Asia,” she said.

Minister Arifah also expressed openness to further joint initiatives, hoping the partnership would lead to mutual progress.

The dialogue marks a significant effort to exchange knowledge and strengthen policies benefiting women and children in both regions. With aligned visions, Indonesia and Sarawak are poised to enhance their social development frameworks.(Uki Ruknuddin)