Peace Education in Aceh: PKK Supports IWPG Initiative

BANDA ACEH | INDATANEWS.COM - The Chairperson of the Aceh Regional Family Welfare Empowerment Team (TP PKK), Marlina Muzakir, has expressed strong appreciation for the International Women's Peace Group (IWPG) for selecting Aceh as one of the locations for its peace education program. She noted that the initiative aligns closely with the region's social context, which has a long history of conflict and ongoing reconciliation efforts.

The meeting took place on Thursday, June 18, 2026, in Banda Aceh, when Marlina Muzakir—also known as Kak Na—received a courtesy visit from IWPG Chairwoman Ana Milana Puspita Sari. The discussion was held in a warm and constructive atmosphere, focusing on strengthening peacebuilding efforts through women's organizations.

Strengthening Peace Values in Society

Marlina Muzakir emphasized that the introduction of peace education programs in Aceh is a strategic step that requires broad support from various stakeholders, particularly women's organizations and civil society groups. She underlined that peace values must be embedded deeply and sustainably within society.

"Aceh has a long history of conflict. Therefore, we welcome the IWPG initiative to make Aceh a focus area for peace education programs," Marlina said.

She further stressed that peace education should not be limited to activists and NGOs, but must also reach grassroots women's organizations.

"This is an excellent program that we fully support. In the future, peace education should not only involve NGOs and activists, but also be integrated into PKK structures," she added.

PKK's Strategic Role in Social Harmony

Marlina explained that the PKK network in Aceh is strongly established down to the village level, making it a key channel for implementing social programs, including peace education initiatives.

She noted that PKK cadres frequently deal with social challenges such as family issues, education, and community dynamics. Therefore, an understanding of peace principles is essential to strengthen their role in family empowerment programs.

Through its extensive reach-down to the Dasa Wisma groups-the PKK is capable of delivering peace messages directly to communities, ensuring a broader and more sustainable impact.

IWPG Plans to Expand Cooperation in Aceh

IWPG Chairwoman Ana Milana Puspita Sari stated that similar proposals regarding PKK involvement had previously been discussed with Indonesia's Ministry of Home Affairs. She welcomed the idea and confirmed IWPG's readiness to expand collaboration.

"We agree that involving PKK is highly beneficial. Its grassroots reach has a very positive impact, and we will continue to develop this cooperation," Ana said.

She explained that IWPG is an international organization based in Seoul, South Korea, dedicated to promoting global peace, particularly through empowering women and protecting children.

One of its key initiatives is the Peace Leadership and Training (PLT) program, which trains women to become peace leaders.

"Currently, participants from Aceh are joining the pre-PLT program at Balai Syura Inong Aceh," she added.

Building a Peaceful Future for Aceh

The meeting highlighted the importance of strong collaboration among women's organizations in promoting sustainable peace in Aceh. Marlina emphasized that such partnerships are essential to strengthening tolerance and social cohesion.

Representatives from Balai Syura Inong Aceh, who actively work in women's empowerment, also attended the meeting. All parties expressed hope that this engagement would mark the beginning of a broader and long-term partnership with IWPG.

With the involvement of multiple stakeholders, peace education in Aceh is expected to move beyond a formal program and become an integral part of daily community life. (IDNC)

REPORTER: Adli Safwan | EDITOR: Fik Sagala

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