The strategic role of women in economic growth through the lens of islamic economics in Indonesia

Umar Umar; Evi Retno Cristiyan  Dewi; Avrilia  Jasnur; Mutiara  Arlinda

doi:10.55942/pssj.v5i10.699

Authors

Umar Umar UIN Palopo https://orcid.org/0009-0005-2820-7542
Evi Retno Cristiyan Dewi Ministry of Religion Madrasah https://orcid.org/0009-0009-6913-7930
Avrilia Jasnur State Islamic University of Palopo
Mutiara Arlinda State Islamic University of Palopo

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55942/pssj.v5i10.699

Keywords:

Economic Growth, Islamic Economy, Women

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the strategic role of women as pillars of economic growth within the framework of the Islamic economy in Indonesia. A mixed-method approach was employed that combined quantitative and qualitative techniques. The quantitative method utilized Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to measure the influence of women's variables on economic growth. Meanwhile, the qualitative approach adopted a literature review to analyze the structure of the Islamic economic framework in Indonesia. The results indicate that the Gender Development Index (GDI) significantly mediates and strengthens the influence of women-related indicators on economic growth. Women's education emerged as the most dominant factor, both directly and indirectly, followed by women's income. Meanwhile, female labor force participation and professional engagement exerted significant indirect effects on the GDI. These findings underscore the importance of inclusive gender-based development policies to support Indonesia’s sustainable economic growth. Furthermore, the analysis reveals that women’s involvement in economic sectors—particularly in the halal industry, Islamic microfinance, and the management of Islamic social funds such as zakat and waqf—has a significant impact on equitable and sustainable economic development. The Islamic economy provides a holistic value framework for empowering women as economic actors and agents of social transformation who maintain a balance between spiritual values and material progress. This study recommends the formulation of gender-inclusive Islamic macroeconomic policies and the enhancement of Islamic financial literacy and access for women. Thus, women’s empowerment in the Islamic economy is not merely a matter of equality but a strategic foundation for achieving just and sustainable national economic growth

Author Biographies

Umar Umar, UIN Palopo

Umar, as an author with expertise in Development Planning Economics, made a significant contribution to this research. He actively participated in developing the research concept, formulating the background of the problem, and defining the research objectives in line with the study’s focus. In addition, Umar contributed to analyzing the research methodology to ensure a systematic framework. During the analysis stage, he provided critical and objective interpretation of the findings and was also involved in drawing the conclusions, thereby strengthening the overall quality and depth of the study.

Evi Retno Cristiyan Dewi, Ministry of Religion Madrasah

Evi Retno Cristiyan Dewi, with expertise in Indonesian Literature, made an essential contribution to this research. She was responsible for composing well-structured academic writing in standard language, ensuring clarity and coherence of the manuscript. In addition, Evi conducted a search and selection of relevant references, performed a comprehensive literature review, and contributed to aligning theoretical frameworks with the research findings. Her role strengthened the theoretical foundation and ensured the relevance between the conceptual framework and the study results, thereby enhancing the academic quality of this work.

Avrilia Jasnur, State Islamic University of Palopo

Avrilia Jasnur, a student of Islamic Economics, contributed by processing research data using relevant applications to ensure accurate findings. In addition, she participated in interpreting the research results thoroughly, allowing the data to be properly analyzed and supporting the conclusions of the study. Her role strengthened the validity of the data as well as the depth of the analysis in this research.

Mutiara Arlinda, State Islamic University of Palopo

Mutiara Arlinda, a student of Islamic Economics, contributed by analyzing the research findings from the perspective of Islamic economics. She reviewed the results to ensure their alignment with Islamic economic principles, thus providing a more comprehensive and Sharia-based viewpoint. Her contribution strengthened the relevance of the study to the field of Islamic economics and enriched the interpretation of the research outcomes.

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