Chairul Fikri, Jakarta – Indonesia commemorated Kartini Day on Sunday, celebrated by women across the nation, including female celebrities, politicians, and businesswomen. Several female celebrities shared their views on the figure of Raden Ajeng (RA) Kartini, who has become an icon for women in the country.

Actress Prilly Latuconsina explained in her post that as a woman, she wants to continue inspiring other women with her work and abilities. She also hopes to continue educating women in Indonesia to be equal to men.

"If possible, I would like to continue my education, maybe pursue a career. This is surely a question on everyone's mind, what about a partner? Well, I'll find a partner because women also need a partner. Being a feminist doesn't mean being anti-men. Men and women are equal, there's no one superior, and no one inferior," said Prilly in her post on social media as quoted by Beritasatu.com on Sunday.

Prilly also hopes that other Indonesian women can continue Kartini's struggle in this modern era.

RA Kartini, often referred to as Kartini, was an Indonesian national heroine and a pioneer in the area of women's rights for Indonesians. She was born on April 21, 1879, in Jepara, Central Java, and died at the young age of 25 on September 17, 1904. Kartini was known for her advocacy for the education of girls and women's rights during the Dutch colonial period in Indonesia. Her efforts contributed significantly to the advancement of women's rights and education in Indonesia.

Singer Ashanty, also hopes that Indonesian women can continue to fight and not give up in any situation they face to live up to the values taught by Kartini. "Don't give up. Don't let regret come because you are one step away from victory. RA Kartini, keep the spirit alive, great women of Indonesia," said Ashanty.

Actress Dian Sastro highlighted that women possess skills and capabilities beyond those of men. She emphasized that women not only leverage their physical and mental faculties but also exhibit a softer side, a quality that men may lack during challenging times.

"Women can diplomatically use their softness and flexibility, but at the same time, only female ministers can remain assertive in their gentleness. Be a powerful and productive woman. Keep dreaming for all great women. Happy Kartini Day," she wrote on her social media account.

Singer and politician Krisdayanti mentioned that the opportunities and chances for women in the modern era to choose their lives and education should be appreciated. However, Krisdayanti reminded women to stay within their nature as women and as mothers responsible for the lives of the nation's future generations.

"Kartini tried to push for equal education rights for women back then. This becomes the spirit for today's women to keep creating and contributing to the nation's development. Nowadays, all women can determine their careers and lives, but they should still maintain their role as a mother," said Krisdayanti.

Meanwhile, dangdut singer Inul Daratista also mentioned in her post that Indonesian women should be able to become Kartini by continuously fighting against ignorance and overcoming weaknesses. Because only women with a strong mentality will become great women.

"Be a great woman for your family, your parents, your nation, your country. Being strong doesn't mean fighting against men. But being strong to become a great woman by turning all weaknesses into strengths and success as a modern Kartini," said Inul.

President Director of state oil and gas company Pertamina (Persero) Nicke Widyawati said that the 147th Kartini Day symbolizes the awakening of Indonesian women's emancipation. Currently, Indonesian women can work and play an active role in various fields, including the energy sector.

"Happy Kartini Day to all Indonesian women. Currently, more than 30 percent of Pertamina Officers are women, and we will continue to encourage women to have careers and demonstrate their potential optimally," explained Nicke.

According to Nicke, the presence of women in top management, middle management, and even operational sectors in almost all lines of the company's business shows that Pertamina provides equal opportunities for women to play a role in strategic decision-making.

"Two out of seven directors of Pertamina (Holding) are women, and nearly 20 percent of the total management level workforce are women leaders. This is almost reaching the target set by the Minister of State-Owned Enterprises, which is 25 percent representation of women in the leadership of SOEs," she said.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/lifestyle/women-of-indonesia-reflect-on-kartinis-legac