Author: Sitti Maesuri Patahuddin, PhD
As we approach International Women’s Day, I find myself reflecting not only on the broader societal misconceptions surrounding women’s leadership in Indonesian communities but also on my own journey of understanding. My personal experience in the Indonesian context shows that the Quranic phrase ‘Arrijalu qawwamuna ala nissa’, is often translated as men having authority over women. This had impacted my belief and the social norms I experienced, a situation particularly found in predominantly Islamic countries like Indonesia. As the first female from Eastern Indonesia to hold an Associate Professor position in STEM Education in Australia, I write, this op-ed to argue that this is not just an academic discourse; it is a personal testament to the importance of challenging and re-examining a widely misinterpreted concept about leadership within Indonesian communities,
My initial views on women’s leadership, despite my educational achievements, remained surprisingly narrow. After completing my master’s degree in Indonesia, my ideal was still to be a good wife and mother, dedicating most of my time to household responsibilities. I even several times intended to resign from my academic job to allow myself to focus only on my family. Despite observing women’s strong capacities in handling complex issues, the lack of women role models and my religiously influenced belief that men inherently possess leadership qualities limited my curiosity about gender roles and imbalances.
Through my academic and personal explorations, I have learned that leadership qualities are not gender-specific but depend on individual capabilities and traits. Rather than suggesting gender superiority, it advocates a symbiotic relationship between men and women, defined by their respective roles and responsibilities. Fundamentally, it underscores responsibility and moral leadership, transcending gender boundaries.
The argument that leadership is more apt for men due to inherent gender differences is increasingly contradicted by empirical evidence. For instance, a Harvard Business Review study found that women often surpass men in key leadership competencies such as initiative, resilience, and collaboration. This data does not diminish men’s leadership roles but advocates for an inclusive understanding that leadership potential is not gender-specific but depends on individual attributes and skills. Embracing this broader interpretation promotes social justice and equality for the entire community.
The misinterpretation of women leadership in the Indonesian communities in which approximately 50% of people are women considerably affects society. It perpetuates gender stereotypes and hinders the advancement of women into leadership roles, despite their capabilities. This phenomenon is strikingly apparent in Indonesia’s educational sector, where females constitute over 70% of primary school teachers (i.e., 1,060,182 out of 1,473,042 primary school teachers in 2024), yet fewer than 5% achieve the role of school principal. Such an imbalance not only contradicts the fundamental essence of equality embedded in our religious doctrines but also deprives society of varied leadership insights.
In celebrating International Women’s Day, let us expand our recognition beyond renowned figures and national heroes such as Raden Adjeng Kartini or Cut Nyak Dhien, to acknowledge the numerous exemplary women among us. My personal journey from a conventional perspective on women’s roles to recognising and championing women in leadership positions exemplifies the significance of re-evaluating our preconceptions. This shift underscores the necessity of being receptive to the evidence that frequently illustrates women’s superior leadership capabilities.
Recently, the loss of two pivotal women in my life – my mother and eldest sister Nurhaeda – prompted me to reflect on their unrecognised yet highly significant leadership roles within their communities. Inspired by them, I wrote and presented the book ”Her Footsteps: The Lasting Legacy of Nurhaeda” to hundreds of villagers in South Sulawesi. This resonates with my journey, demonstrating how resilience, determination, and a commitment to education can lead to transformative leadership, regardless of gender.
Born into a large family of modest means, Nurhaeda overcome societal and economic barriers to become a cornerstone of her community, embodying the true essence of effective women’s leadership. She exemplified this leadership through her unwavering support for her seven siblings’ and extended family’s education, her involvement in the community, and her professional commitment. Similarly, I have come to understand the broader implications of my role beyond the confines of traditional expectations.
Nurhaeda’s narrative is not singular. Across Indonesia, numerous women demonstrate leadership in various sectors, often unacknowledged. From business executives to community organisers, their contributions are pivotal.
As we commemorate this International Women day, let’s commit to creating opportunities for women in leadership and challenging the stereotypes that have long impeded their progress. This honours the legacy of women like Nurhaeda and lays the foundation for a more equitable society where leadership is defined by capability and character, not gender. It’s time to redefine leadership, understanding that strength and guidance are qualities inherent in individuals who inspire and lead courageously, regardless of gender.
Each of us has a role to play in challenging and reshaping entrenched stereotypes within our societies. It begins with education and fostering a deeper understanding of religious texts in their truest contexts. Community leaders, educators, and parents must encourage open dialogues that question and break down gender biases. At a policy level, initiatives to promote women’s participation in leadership roles are essential. We must advocate for and implement mentorship programs that nurture female leadership talent from a young age. Let this International Women’s Day be a call to action, a commitment from each of us to actively support and create pathways for women to assume leadership roles. – Maybe – Find and celebrate the Nurhaedas across the country.
This article was originally published on the Jakarta Post website.