Celebrating the success of Muslim women throughout the ages
Long before feminism became mainstream, Islam has always upheld the status of women in society. In an era when female children were buried alive and women were treated as mere objects, the Quran was revealed, and it advocates for the rights of women and recognises the value of women in society. Women have never been viewed as “lesser” beings, and “(women) have rights similar to those of men equitably” (Al-Baqarah 2:228). In fact, women have made important contributions throughout Islamic history, and Muslim women continue to make an impact in today’s world. In conjunction with International Women’s Day, Ouch! celebrates the contributions of these important women to our world today.
1. Khadijah bint Khuwailid
Perhaps one of the most important figures in Islamic history is Khadijah bint Khuwailid, the wife and companion of Rasulullah SAW, who was breaking glass ceilings over a thousand years ago. She was a successful merchant and businesswoman in her own right, known as “Al-Tahira” for her fairness and integrity. In a male-dominated society, she grew the business she had inherited to be bigger than all the other Quraysh trades combined. Khadijah was the first person to embrace Islam and believe in Rasulullah SAW after the revelations. She played an important role in encouraging Prophet Muhammad and used her riches to enable Rasulullah SAW to focus on his prophetic duties, choosing to endure hardship for the sake of Islam. The Prophet once said she is one of the four greatest women of mankind (Musnad Ahmad, 2896), and she remained the only wife of the Prophet until her death, a testament to the Prophet’s deep love for her. Khadijah’s success and independence were unprecedented in her time and taught women generations later the capability and importance a woman can play in society.
2. Sutayta al-Mahamali
Sutayta Al-Mahamali is a Muslim scholar and renowned mathematician from 10th century Baghdad during the Islamic Golden Age. She was particularly known for her ability to solve complex problems regarding the distribution of inheritance shares (faraid) thanks to her deep understanding of arithmetic and algebra. Her work in inheritance shares not only advanced mathematical knowledge but also reinforced the ethical and legal principles of Islam, ensuring that wealth distribution adhered to divine guidance. Fast forward to today, issues regarding inheritance have largely been simplified and can be secured in advance to minimise disputes thanks to Islamic finance tools such as takaful. Takaful products such as Pusara Pro will help to ensure the well-being of your loved ones even in your absence. Sutayta Al-Mahamali’s legacy in a male-dominated field highlights the importance and power of knowledge in society.
3. Bisan Owda
Bisan Owda emerged as one of the most inspirational and powerful figures out of the Gaza genocide in Palestine. Bisan had risked her life documenting every aspect of the genocide, her coverage reaching millions of people around the world. Her courageous journalistic work has resulted in the production of a short documentary in collaboration with AJ+, “It’s Bisan from Gaza and I’m Still Alive”. The documentary exposed the harsh realities of conditions in Gaza but also highlighted the resilience and unrivalled spirit of Palestinians living under the occupation, including her own, as she filmed in a makeshift tent outside of Al-Shifa Hospital in a supposed safe zone. It has won multiple awards, including an Emmy Award in the Outstanding Hard News Feature Story. Before Bisan was thrown into the spotlight amidst the genocide, she was already an activist and storyteller, working with international organisations on issues such as gender equality and climate change initiatives with the United Nations and European Union. Bisan embodies the spirit of resilience, and today, she continues to report on the situation in Gaza.
4. Tan Sri Professor Emeritus Dr. Mazlan Othman
Tan Sri Mazlan Othman is Malaysia’s first astrophysicist, proving that women can also strive in the world of sciences. As the founding Director General of Malaysia’s National Space Agency (ANGKASA), she laid the foundation for the nation’s space policy and research. Tan Sri Mazlan played a pivotal role in establishing Malaysia’s space programmes, including the launch of the nation’s first microsatellite, TiungSAT-1, in 2000; the Angkasawan Programme, which sent the first Malaysian to the International Space Station, Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor; as well as setting up the National Planetarium. Internationally, she has served as the Director of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs. (UNOOSA), advocating global cooperation in space science and technology, particularly for developing nations. Tan Sri Mazlan continues to contribute to the world of sciences today as the Project Director of the Academy of Sciences Malaysia. Her work has inspired a generation of scientists, especially women, and has positioned Malaysia as an active participant in the global space community.
5. Tan Sri Dr. Zeti Akhtar Aziz
Tan Sri Zeti was the first woman to be appointed as the Governor of Malaysia’s central bank, Bank Negara. She was at the helm of Bank Negara for 16 years, making her the longest-serving governor in history. Under her leadership, Malaysia’s financial system became a model for resilience and innovation, particularly during the global financial crisis, where her policies ensured stability and growth. Tan Sri Zeti championed Islamic finance, positioning Malaysia as a global hub for Shariah-compliant banking and fostering international collaboration in this sector. Her efforts advanced financial inclusion, sustainable development, and ethical banking practices, influencing both Malaysia and the global financial community. She is widely regarded as a pioneer in Islamic finance and a trailblazer for women in central banking.
Read! In the name of your Lord who created.” (Al-‘Alaq 96:1)
Iqra’ (read) was the first world revealed to Prophet Muhammad SAW, emphasising the importance of knowledge in our life on earth and beyond, regardless of one’s gender, as shown by the incredible women highlighted in this entry. These women have broken boundaries and defied men-made norms. Ouch! hopes they have inspired you as much as they have inspired us! Let’s strive to emulate even a fraction of their tenacity and dedication in our own lives, pursuing our own goals and dreams. And don’t forget to celebrate the inspiring women in your lives, too!
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Disclaimer: The information in our blog articles and provided by our brand ambassadors/KOLs is for general insights only and not legally binding. We strive for accuracy but cannot guarantee the information’s completeness or reliability. For legal matters, consult official documents or contact an authorised Ouch! representative.