ISLAMABAD: Women in Muslim countries are second to none in their abilities and must contribute towards uplifting the national economy by participating in businesses and so on, Indonesian Ambassador Adam M Tugio said on Sunday.

He was speaking at the first hybrid international workshop focused on economic empowerment of Muslim women.

The embassies of Indonesia, Malaysia, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia and Turkey collaborated with the National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) to organise the event.

The opening session was attended by officials of participating embassies, the diplomatic community, the NCSW Chairperson Nilofar Bakhtiar and chairperson of the National Commission for Child Rights.

Ambassador Tugio pointed out the importance of skill development of women to enhance their productivity and betterment of the future generation.

The event was part of a series of discussions to share best practices of women’s breakthrough leadership in socio-economic affairs, politics and policymaking in the Islamic world.

Education plays an important role in improving the economic participation of women and it is said that educated women make an educated nation, the ambassador said, adding, “We need to raise awareness in all Islamic countries for women’s economic empowerment.”

Meanwhile, Tunisian Ambassador Borhene El-Kamel shared with the audience, the experience of women empowerment in Tunisia.

He said the future of women in his country was bright and women were free to participate in economic activities, adding women were gradually consolidating their position in all countries and occupying important positions.

Ms Bakhtiar shed light on the idea behind launching of international workshops and suggested making a pool of new talented women entrepreneurs.

The panellists underscored that Muslim women had made an outstanding contribution towards society and on some occasions served as outstanding leaders.

Chairperson of the National Commission for Child Rights Afshan Tehseen said, “If you support a woman, you support an entire nation.”

Ambassador Ibrahim Al Madani of Jordan emphasised that women’s economic empowerment should be a priority in national development plans.

“Islam attaches great importance to the economic and social role of women and our religion is free in this regard,” he said.

Pakistani women entrepreneurs also participated in the event and displayed vibrant and colourful works such as handicrafts, handmade jewellery, rugs, painting, and other interesting items.

Their work and dedication were encouraged and admired by the audience.

The next event would focus on sharing best practices on the advancement of women’s role in politics in Muslim majority countries followed by the role of Ulema in promoting women empowerment.

This series of events will bring together Islamic scholars, researchers, and experts from Muslim majority countries to discuss and share their knowledge, experiences, and best practices in promoting women’s rights as guaranteed by Islam.

Published in Dawn, March 7th, 2022