MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, THAILAND – ‘Aisyiyah participated in the 12th Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development (APFSD), organized by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) at the UN Conference Center in Bangkok, Thailand, on Tuesday, February 25, 2025.
Tri Hastuti Nur Rochimah, General Secretary of ‘Aisyiyah, spoke at a side event titled “Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships to Achieve Economic Resilience for Women and People with Disabilities.” She emphasized the importance of sharing best practices to expand ‘Aisyiyah efforts in empowerment and advocacy.
“This forum is a learning space for ‘Aisyiyah and an opportunity to share our work so that more people, especially in the Asia-Pacific region, can benefit from it,” said Tri.
One of ‘Aisyiyah’s key initiatives is the INKLUSI Program, which helps people with disabilities gain better access to job opportunities. Tri pointed out that they still face stigma and are often seen as lacking the skills to compete in the workforce. She also noted that special education schools mainly focus on technical training, without preparing students with the soft skills needed for employment.
“Most schools and job training focuses on hard skills, but students also need soft skills to succeed in the workplace,” explained Tri.
Despite regulations requiring employers to hire workers with disabilities, many companies have yet to follow through.
“The government and private sector still have a long way to go in ensuring inclusive employment,” said Tri.
To address this, ‘Aisyiyah partners with special education schools to train teachers in job readiness skills, helping students and alumni prepare for work. The organization also works with local labor offices and industry representatives to advocate for better job access for people with disabilities.
“Through these efforts, we encourage employers to offer internships. This gives young people with disabilities a chance to prove their abilities, and some even secure permanent jobs,” added Tri.
However, creating opportunities is only part of the solution. Tri stressed the need for inclusive workplaces where employees with disabilities feel supported, and where their employment is sustainable in the long run.
Meanwhile, Deputy for Human Development, Society, and Culture at Indonesia’s Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas) Amich Alhumami praised ‘Aisyiyah work, highlighting its role in inclusive development and collaboration with government and businesses.
“‘Aisyiyah’s efforts show how civil society organizations can help create a more inclusive Indonesia,” said Amich.
Through partnerships and advocacy, ‘Aisyiyah continues to break barriers and create equal opportunities for all.
