Mataram, University of Mataram – In collaboration with clinical psychologist Azizatul Adni, M.Psi., Psychologist from the University of Mataram’s BKPK, the Jwara Project held a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) on August 11 and August 28, 2025, in Perempung Hamlet, Banyu Urip Village, Gerung District, West Lombok Regency.

“The activity was attended by community members, including former migrant workers and families of Indonesian migrant workers. The purpose of the FGD was to gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics experienced by these families, encompassing the mental and social conditions of family members left behind, patterns of communication, household resilience and harmony, as well as the economic aspects of the family, particularly in managing and utilizing remittances.

The first FGD, held on August 11, 2025, proceeded successfully and was met with strong enthusiasm from the community. Participants were divided into two small groups, each facilitated by one facilitator, one co-facilitator, and one note-taker.

“The majority of participants were housewives who shared their experiences of having husbands or children working overseas. They highlighted the absence of male roles within the household, particularly in physically demanding tasks such as farming, cultivating rice fields, and in everyday domestic responsibilities such as carrying water gallons or escorting children to school. As a result, mothers are often compelled to assume dual roles, simultaneously fulfilling the responsibilities of both father and mother.

The second FGD, held on August 28, 2025, was met with a highly positive response from the community. As in the first session, participants were divided into small discussion groups, each supported by a facilitator, a co-facilitator, and a note-taker. This session focused on deepening the initial findings, especially regarding social and psychological dimensions, transnational communication, and the strategies adopted by migrant worker families in managing household finances. The smooth execution of this activity was further strengthened by the presence of Dina Eka Putri, M.Si., Co-Founder of Rumah Perempuan Migran and academic supervisor of the Jwara Project.”