Kelompok Wanita Tani Suka Makmur as Medium of Communication and Empowerment of Women Farmers: The Case of Subak Guama, Tabanan-Bali

Abstract

Women farmers of Subak Guama Tabanan are hegemonized by male farmers. To fight for their rights, they formed a group, namely famale farmers group of Suka Makmur, “Kelompok Wanita Tani Suka Makmur (herein after abbreviated to as KWT Suka Makmur). This paper is discussing; (1) why is the female peasant member of Subak Guama hegemony? How does KWT Suka Makmur become a forum for communication and empowerment of local women farmers? This study uses a qualitative approach whose data is obtained through the process of observation, document study, and in-depth interviews with 8 competent informants. Data analysis was done descriptively-interpretive by applying  social practice theory (Bourdieu), theory of knowledge / power (Foucault) and post feminism theory. The results showed that the the hegemoni  of women of Subak Guama farmers  in the management of social capital economy Subak Guama. These hegemonic practices are, among other things, actualized in the application of local policies (awig-awig and perarem) related to the management of Subak Guama's social economic capital. KWT Suka Makmur has played a role as a medium for communication and empowerment of local women farmers. Empowerment is done by providing education and training on household business skills for local women farmers. Through KWT Suka Makmur, female Subak Guama members are able to run entrepreneurship to support their family's economy. Increased participation of women farmers of Subak Guama requires support of Subak Guama's board, accompanied by the Agriculture Office and related sectors.

Keywords: KWT Suka Makmur, communication, empowerment of women farmers