Dr. Siti Musdah Mulia

Dr. Siti Musdah Mulia is the first woman to earn a Ph.D. in Islamic thought from the State Islamic University, and the first woman appointed a research professor by the Indonesian Institute of Sciences. A prominent Muslim feminist, Dr. Mulia has used her extensive knowledge of the Quran and Hadiths to advocate for women’s rights. Dr. Mulia was part of a team of experts that produced a Counter Legal Draft of Indonesia’s Islamic legal code; recommendations included prohibiting child marriage, and allowing interfaith marriage. In the face of violent protests, the Minister of Religious Affairs canceled the project. Though faced with death threats and condemnation, Dr. Mulia continues to educate Indonesian women about their rights.