YOGYAKARTA, Indonesia — As Indonesia moves toward the third Congress of Indonesian Women Ulama in 2027, the Congress of Indonesian Women Ulama, known as KUPI, this week reaffirmed its commitment to a women-led religious movement grounded in humanity, justice and public accountability.

KUPI convened a public dialogue from Dec. 12 to 14, 2025, at Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University in Yogyakarta as part of its Halaqah Kubra, a major forum to reflect on contemporary social, political and religious challenges. The dialogue invited public input — including criticism and expectations — to ensure the movement remains responsive to society, particularly vulnerable groups.

In opening remarks, Noorhaidi Hasan, the university’s rector, placed the gathering within a longer national history. He recalled that Yogyakarta hosted Indonesia’s first Women’s Congress in 1928, which brought together around 30 women’s organizations from across the archipelago to campaign for legal equality, broader access to education, and opposition to forced and underage marriage.

“Even in 1928, Indonesian women demonstrated extraordinary achievements,” Mr. Hasan said. “Their efforts made an important contribution to the development of our nation.”

Gusti Kanjeng Ratu Hemas, vice chair of Indonesia’s Regional Representative Council, said the forum was essential for evaluating progress since KUPI’s second congress and setting direction toward 2027. She pledged continued collaboration between KUPI and the state, noting that women now account for 34.6 percent of the council’s membership, positioning it as a bridge between civil society and public policy.

She also highlighted KUPI’s National Reflection Document on the Women Ulama Movement 2022–2025, which outlines priorities including addressing sexual violence, women’s poverty, climate change and the impact of technological change.

Nyai Hj. Badriyah Fayumi, chair of KUPI’s Consultative Council, said the movement advances an Islamic vision rooted in substantive justice, reciprocity (mubadalah) and social goodness (ma’ruf), translated into concrete missions ranging from knowledge production and advocacy to leadership development for women ulama.

Organizers said the 2025 Halaqah Kubra is intended to lay the groundwork for the 2027 congress, strengthening the role of women ulama in shaping a more just and humane future for Indonesian society.