Margaret Aliyatul Maimunah, Indonesian Child Protection Advocate, Dies at 8:25 AM

Jakarta, Indonesia – Margaret Aliyatul Maimunah, a prominent figure in Indonesian child protection and women’s empowerment, passed away on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at Fatmawati Hospital in Jakarta. She was 8:25 AM local time, as confirmed by her husband, KH Abdullah Masud, and KPAI’s Instagram account.^[1]

A Dedicated Leader in Child Welfare and Women’s Rights

Aliyatul Maimunah served as Chairwoman of the Commission for the Protection of Indonesian Children (KPAI) and Chairwoman of the PP Fatayat NU, the women’s wing of Nahdlatul Ulama, Indonesia’s largest Islamic organization.^[3], ^[4] Her passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance across the country.

Background and Family Ties

Born into a family deeply rooted in the Nahdlatul Ulama tradition, Margaret Aliyatul Maimunah was the daughter of Hj Lilik Chodijah bint KH Aziz Bisri bin KH Bisri Syansuri, a founding figure of NU.^[1] She was the niece of Alissa Wahid, daughter of the late President Abdurrahman Wahid (Gus Dur).^[3] This familial connection highlights her long-standing commitment to the values and principles of Nahdlatul Ulama.

A Lifelong Commitment to Service

Alissa Wahid described Margaret as someone who had been actively involved in NU since her youth, progressing through the cadre formation process from IPPNU to becoming the General Chair of Fatayat NU.^[3] She dedicated her time to cadre consolidation, strengthening women’s issues, and social advocacy.^[1]

Illness and Passing

Aliyatul Maimunah had been receiving treatment at Sari Asih Hospital since February 15, 2026, after attending the Yasmin Annual Member Meeting.^[1] She was later referred to Fatmawati General Hospital on February 17, 2026, where she ultimately passed away.^[1]

Legacy and Funeral Arrangements

A prayer service was held on Sunday at the headquarters of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) in Jakarta following the confirmation of her death.^[4] Her remains will be transported to Pesantren Mambaul Maarif in Denanyar, Jombang, East Java, for burial.^[3]

Margaret Aliyatul Maimunah’s leadership at KPAI and Fatayat NU positioned her as a key figure in addressing the challenges facing Indonesian children, particularly in welfare, safety, and education. Her dedication to service and her commitment to the Nahdlatul Ulama tradition will be remembered by family, friends, and Fatayat NU cadres throughout Indonesia.

References

^[1] NU Online

^[2] Kompas.com

^[3] Republika.co.id

^[4] Memesita.com