Research Highlights Land Rights Challenges for Coastal Women in Indonesia

Recent research conducted by Bunga Desyana Pratami from UIN K.H. Abdurrahman Wahid Pekalongan highlights the pressing issue of land rights for female coastal workers in Pekalongan, Indonesia, particularly in the face of rising sea levels and flooding. Published in the journal “Al-Mazaahib,” the study delves into the constitutional rights of these women and the legal frameworks that currently exist to protect them.

The research reveals that over the past five years, more than 40% of the coastal land in Pekalongan has been submerged due to tidal flooding, severely impacting the livelihoods of women who depend on these lands for their work. While Indonesia’s Basic Agrarian Law (UUPA) does not provide state compensation for lost land, a recent regulation from the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs offers some hope. It categorizes land affected by tidal floods as “land destruction,” allowing landholders a year to reconstruct or reclaim their land, with potential financial support from the government.

Pratami notes, “The constitutional protection for coastal women workers in Pekalongan exists, but there are still some weaknesses.” This highlights an opportunity for the energy sector to engage in sustainable land management and restoration projects that could not only aid these women but also contribute to broader environmental resilience efforts.

Moreover, the study suggests that Islamic law offers a more inclusive perspective on property rights and social justice, which could further enhance legal protections for affected communities. The intersection of agrarian law and Islamic principles could present a unique opportunity for energy companies to invest in community-driven projects that support both economic development and environmental sustainability.

As the energy sector increasingly focuses on renewable sources and sustainable practices, aligning with local communities affected by climate change could yield significant benefits. By collaborating with local stakeholders, energy companies can help develop adaptive strategies that protect land rights while promoting energy resilience.

This research contributes to the understanding of agrarian regulations and their implications for women coastal workers, underscoring the need for enhanced legal protections and compensation mechanisms. The findings from Pratami’s study may serve as a critical reference for policymakers and industry leaders looking to navigate the complexities of land rights and environmental challenges in coastal areas.

For more information about the research and its implications, you can visit UIN K.H. Abdurrahman Wahid Pekalongan.

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