PALMOILMAGAZINE, JAKARTA – “Women in palm oil are not just laborers — they are the ones shaping their families’ future.” This powerful statement captures the essence of research presented by Widyastutik, a researcher at the Center for Agricultural and Rural Development Studies (PSP3), IPB University, who explored the role of women workers in palm oil plantations in household financial and investment decision-making.
In an industry often perceived as male-dominated, women are proving to be much more than supporting figures. Earning between IDR1.5 million and IDR3 million per month, these women contribute significantly to household income — and, more importantly, play a decisive role in key domestic decisions, from children’s education to long-term investments.
“There’s a stereotype that women work only to buy cosmetics,” said Widyastutik. “But in reality, they save money, buy property, and even invest in small businesses.”
Also Read: From Simalungun to Europe: Bu Nur Becomes the Voice of Palm Oil Smallholder
The study, conducted across Asahan (North Sumatra), Siak (Riau), and Kutai Kartanegara (East Kalimantan), found that household decision-making is generally collective. Yet, women dominate certain areas — particularly food expenses, education, and savings management. In some regions, men still take the lead in major financial or strategic decisions, but women’s participation is steadily increasing.
Education, interestingly, is not a limiting factor. Most women workers in this sector have only completed junior high school, yet their economic contributions give them substantial bargaining power at home.
The research identified three main motivations driving women in palm oil to invest:
- Future security – Many understand that their contract-based or informal work provides no retirement protection, so they plan ahead.
- Savings management – As household financial managers, they feel responsible for maintaining family economic stability.
- Emergency funds – Limited access to healthcare services motivates them to prepare for unexpected situations like illness or accidents.
Their investment choices are equally diverse. In addition to conventional savings in banks or cooperatives, many women allocate funds to purchase vehicles, property, or run small businesses. They tend to favor liquid and accessible investment instruments, demonstrating prudence and adaptability in managing risks amid economic uncertainty.
Through both their labor and financial acumen, these women have become not just contributors — but key decision-makers shaping the economic resilience of palm oil households across Indonesia. (T2)
