Indonesian Muslim group praises Defense Minister's hijab policy for female cadets

The Women's Wing of the Indonesian Muslim Intellectuals Association (ICMI) has lauded a recent decision by the Indonesian Minister of Defense permitting female cadets at the University of Defense (Unhan) to wear hijabs during their education. This policy is seen as a significant step forward in respecting religious freedom and fostering a sense of unity within the defense education environment.

Welya Safitri, the Chairperson of the Central Leadership Council of ICMI Women's Wing, expressed gratitude and happiness over the policy. She stated that it demonstrates the Minister's commitment to respecting religious rights while also enhancing the role of Muslim women in the defense sector. The organization believes that military discipline can coexist with religious practices, and this policy will bolster the national spirit and professionalism of female cadets, serving as an example that religious values do not conflict with national defense duties.

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We welcome this policy with full gratitude and happiness. This is proof of his commitment to respecting religious rights while strengthening the role of Muslim women in the defense world.

ICMI Women's Wing is calling for support for policies that are favorable to Muslim women across various sectors, including education, employment, and public spaces. They hope this momentum will encourage other educational institutions to adopt more inclusive practices and respect religious freedom. The organization remains committed to advocating for policies that benefit women, families, and Islamic values, aiming to build a nation characterized by integrity, civility, and justice.

Safitri also addressed concerns about the practicality of wearing hijabs during military training. She argued that the technical reasons cited for prohibiting hijabs, such as hindering movement, are not universally valid. She pointed to numerous Muslim-majority countries with successful female soldiers who train while wearing modified, yet flexible, hijabs. She also noted the achievements of Muslim female athletes in combat sports who compete without removing their hijabs. Safitri urged the Minister of Defense to oversee the policy's implementation and to reconsider any female cadets who may have withdrawn due to previous restrictive policies, ensuring they are not intimidated for upholding their religious beliefs.

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Any reason is indeed a violation of Article 29 of the 1945 Constitution, it must be fixed internally within the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Indonesia because there should not be a polemic, let alone a ban on wearing the hijab for every Muslim woman in her various professions.