EN.MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA – Nasyiatul ‘Aisyiyah celebrated its 95th anniversary on Saturday (16/5) with a gathering themed “Srikandi Penjaga Peradaban,” or “Heroine Safeguarding Civilization,” highlighting the organization’s vision of empowering young Muslim women through leadership, education, and moral value.
The anniversary reception took place at the auditorium of KH Ahmad Dahlan Mosque at Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta (UMY).
Among those attending were Agung Danarto, Chairperson of Muhammadiyah Central Board; Hilman Latief, Muhammadiyah’s General Treasurer; and Salmah Orbayinah, President of ‘Aisyiyah, alongside senior leaders from Muhammadiyah and ‘Aisyiyah institutions.
Celebrating Nearly a Century of Women’s Activism
“Alhamdulillah, this anniversary celebration received support from many parties,” Ariati said. “This morning we successfully held an international seminar, and tonight we gathered for the 95th anniversary reception of Nasyiatul Aisyiyah.”
She, furthermore, said the organization has continued to grow and adapt throughout its nearly century-long history. She expressed her hope for Nasyiatul ‘Aisyiyah to keep refining its programs to meet the changing needs of society.
“We continue to develop through improvement and adjustment, ensuring our programs remain relevant to the needs of the times and the community,” she added.
The Meaning of “Srikandi Penjaga Peradaban”
Salmah described the anniversary theme as highly relevant for today’s generation of Muslim women.
The term Srikandi refers to a heroic female figure in Javanese wayang tradition, often associated with courage, intelligence, and skill in archery.
However, Salmah said Nasyiatul Aisyiyah seeks to expand that meaning beyond strength and capability alone.
“A Nasyiatul Aisyiyah Srikandi is not only resilient, smart, and skilled,” she said. “She must also possess strong morality, noble character, and firm faith.”
Her remarks emphasized the organization’s broader mission of nurturing women who combine intellectual development with ethical and spiritual values.
Preparing for the Organization’s Centennial Era
Hilman welcomed the anniversary celebration as both a joyful occasion and a moment for reflection as the organization approaches its 100th year.
“We celebrate these 95 years of Nasyiatul Aisyiyah with great happiness,” he said. “God willing, in five years the organization will enter its centennial era.”
He encouraged the organization to begin preparing long-term projects that document its historical contributions to Indonesian society, including research, publications, and archival initiatives.
“I believe that as we approach one hundred years, we need a project that explores more deeply the documentation, publication, and real contributions of Nasyiatul Aisyiyah to this nation,” he said.
Founded in 1931, Nasyiatul Aisyiyah serves as the young women’s wing of ‘Aisyiyah. The organization has long played a significant role in education, social advocacy, and youth empowerment within Indonesia’s Muslim community. (Bhisma)
