Women's Empowerment Strategy in Reducing Poverty Vulnerability through Utilization of Local Resources in West Kalimantan Province

Abstract

Poverty remains a development challenge facing Indonesia, stemming not only from limited income but also from unequal access to economic resources, education, and employment opportunities. Women, particularly those in low-income households, are a particularly vulnerable group, despite their significant potential to support family economic resilience. This study aims to analyze women's empowerment strategies to reduce poverty vulnerability through the utilization of local resources in West Kalimantan Province. This study used a descriptive qualitative approach with data collection techniques including in-depth interviews, field observations, and focus group discussions (FGDs) involving women entrepreneurs based on local resources, community leaders, and local government representatives. The results indicate that women play a significant role in increasing family income through small-scale, home-based businesses that utilize local potential such as agricultural products and crafts. However, various obstacles exist, such as limited access to capital, skills, and marketing networks. Therefore, a strategy is needed that includes capacity building, strengthening women's economic institutions, and supporting market access and policies. This study concludes that women's empowerment based on local resources can be an effective approach to increasing household economic resilience and reducing poverty vulnerability in a sustainable manner.