Enviro News Asia, Jakarta — Indonesia’s Minister of Environment and Head of the Environmental Control Agency (KLH/BPLH), Hanif Faisol Nurofiq, emphasized that the extensive social network of Muslimat Nahdlatul Ulama plays a decisive role in addressing the country’s environmental crisis and waste management challenges.
The statement was delivered during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between KLH/BPLH and the Central Executive Board of Muslimat NU, held alongside the First Plenary Meeting and the inauguration of Muslimat NU paralegals at the Ministry of Religious Affairs office in Jakarta.
Minister Hanif described the collaboration as a strategic momentum to mobilize a nationwide “green force” rooted in households and extending to remote areas, in support of the national Asta Cita agenda on clean and healthy living.
He praised Muslimat NU for its strong grassroots militancy and capacity to empower communities independently, noting that the organization is able to influence behavioral change at the smallest social unit — the family.
Amid escalating global climate threats and recent hydrometeorological disasters in northern Sumatra, Hanif stressed that environmental protection is not only a civic duty but also a moral and spiritual responsibility.
As a concrete step, KLH/BPLH has integrated Muslimat NU into the National Waste Clean-Up Program (PROBERNAS), agreed with the Ministry of Home Affairs. A key initiative under the partnership is the regular “Friday Clean-Up Action,” to be implemented sustainably from household and neighborhood levels up to provincial scale.
Muslimat NU members are expected to lead public education on household waste segregation and ensure that priority areas remain free from renewed waste accumulation.
Minister Hanif expressed optimism that the movement would succeed, citing the symbolic and practical strength demonstrated by Muslimat NU’s mass mobilization. He emphasized that clean environments, environmental awareness, and circular economy practices are essential foundations for national progress and intergenerational sustainability.
The event was also attended by Chairwoman of the Advisory Board of PP Muslimat NU and East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa, as well as Chairwoman of PP Muslimat NU and Minister of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection, Arifatul Choiri Fauzi. (*)
