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Aisyiyah Advocates for Greater Aged-Female Agency in Indonesia

Aisyiyah’s Leader and Activist Latifah Iskandar, aged 66, stands strong as a beacon of advocacy for Indonesia's most vulnerable.

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Aisyiyah’s Leader and Activist Latifah Iskandar, aged 66, stands strong as a beacon of advocacy for Indonesia’s most vulnerable.

As a prominent activist and leader within Aisyiyah, one of Indonesia’s oldest and most influential women’s organizations, Latifah Iskandar has dedicated her life to addressing the needs of marginalized groups, particularly women and the elderly.

“Establishing social services specifically designed for the elderly, along with a dedication to developing innovative care solutions, is a core aspect of Aisyiyah’s mission of universal humanitarian advocacy,” says Iskandar.

Indonesia, like many other nations, is experiencing a significant demographic shift, with over 10% of its population currently aged 60 or older—a figure projected to rise to 15.45% by 2045.

Regions such as Yogyakarta, East Java, Central Java, and West Java have the highest concentrations of elderly individuals.

 This trend presents numerous challenges, including ensuring adequate access to basic services, providing economic support, and establishing robust elderly care systems.

Latifah’s role extends beyond Aisyiyah. She is also a board member at the Rifka Annisa Women’s Crisis Center in Yogyakarta, an organization that provides critical support and advocacy for women facing domestic violence and other gender-based issues. Her dual roles exemplify her commitment to fostering social welfare and protecting vulnerable populations.

“As the elderly population grows, there is a critical need for comprehensive care services. Currently, the majority of caregivers are family members, with women disproportionately shouldering the burden of caregiving responsibilities,” says the Bappenas Poverty Alleviation and Empowerment Director Tirta Suteja.

To address these challenges, Aisyiyah has implemented various programs targeting elderly welfare. The organization focuses on providing support to elderly individuals facing poverty, many of whom lack secure housing, adequate income, and access to quality care services.

Iskandar  highlights the urgency of this mission.

“The rising number of elderly people, especially those living in poverty (nearly 40%), is a major challenge for Aisyiyah. We believe that strengthening our social services for the elderly can be a key part of the solution in ensuring their well-being,” says Iskandar.

In addition to service provision, Aisyiyah actively advocates for policy changes to better address the needs of the elderly. The organization encourages its members to support the implementation of Presidential Regulation Number 88 of 2021, which outlines the National Strategy for Elderly Affairs—a comprehensive framework designed to address the specific needs and challenges faced by Indonesia’s elderly population.

Community-based programs have proven effective in promoting health and prosperity among the aging population. For instance, the Elderly Golden Age School (EGAS) enhances the well-being of the elderly through educational and social activities, keeping seniors engaged, active, and integrated into society.

However, challenges persist, especially in rural areas where aging women often face disadvantages in healthcare access, income support, and social services. Studies indicate that rural elderly women are disproportionately affected by isolation, poverty, and compromised health compared to their urban counterparts.

To mitigate these issues, organizations like Aisyiyah are working tirelessly to strengthen social services and advocate for inclusive policies that support the elderly, particularly those in marginalized communities. By focusing on service provision and policy advocacy, they aim to create a more inclusive environment where the elderly can thrive.

Latifah Iskandar’s work reflects a broader global effort to ensure that aging populations are not only cared for but also empowered to live dignified, fulfilling lives. Her leadership and vision serve as a testament to the profound impact that dedicated individuals can have on their communities.

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