Gus Ipul: Empowering Indonesian Women on Kartini Day

Independent Report – Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf (Gus Ipul) and Vice Minister of Social Affairs Agus Jabo Priyono attended the commemoration of Kartini Day 2025 at the Ministry of Social Affairs office in Jakarta on Monday, April 21, 2025. During the event, Gus Ipul not only encouraged the Ministry’s staff to reflect on and emulate the struggles of R.A. Kartini but also shared an important message with Indonesian women: to continue developing themselves and achieving more.

Introduction to Kartini Day Commemoration

He emphasized the growing opportunities for women in Indonesia, urging them to take advantage of every chance available to enhance their skills and achieve success. “In the future, we know that the opportunities will continue to expand, so Indonesian women must keep improving their capacity and make the most of every opportunity to excel,” Gus Ipul stated.

Further elaborating, Gus Ipul highlighted that he has provided extensive opportunities for female employees within the Ministry of Social Affairs. This includes equality in decision-making processes and filling positions within the Ministry. For Gus Ipul, performance and achievements are the primary measures of success, not gender. “Equality is crucial. We do not differentiate between men and women; what matters is their performance and contributions,” he added.

Reflecting on R.A. Kartini’s efforts to fight for the rights of Indonesian women, several social meanings can be drawn and applied today. The first is gender equality. Kartini Day serves as a reminder of the importance of advocating for equal rights between men and women, particularly in the fields of education, work, and social roles.

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Kartini’s Non-Confrontational Approach to Gender Equality

“Kartini did not openly confront but instead sought to inspire. She is remembered for her struggle for gender equality in Indonesia through non-violent and non-confrontational means. Kartini did not directly challenge the dominance of men in social strata,” Gus Ipul explained.

The second social lesson to be learned is the importance of education for women. Gus Ipul expressed gratitude for having Kartini as a role model, especially since she advocated for women’s education even before Indonesia gained independence. Today, every citizen of Indonesia, regardless of gender, has the right to education.

After advocating for education, R.A. Kartini also played a significant role in the empowerment of women. “Today, we are thankful to see many women excelling in various fields such as politics. There are many female regents, mayors, governors, and even ministers. Additionally, women in social sectors and non-governmental organizations continue to make substantial contributions,” Gus Ipul remarked.

Kartini Day 2025 was celebrated simultaneously across the Ministry of Social Affairs’ central office and various centers and facilities nationwide. A range of competitions was organized to commemorate R.A. Kartini’s birthday, including a fashion show featuring beautiful kebaya (traditional attire) worn by employees. This event saw representatives from Echelon 1 Units of the Ministry of Social Affairs competing, creating an atmosphere of joy and enthusiasm.

Support for Elderly Women Beneficiaries

The event also featured a costume competition where each Echelon 1 Unit presented their favorite traditional outfits. Gus Ipul and Vice Minister Agus Jabo joined as judges for a choir competition between the Echelon 1 Units. They even visited each team to ensure all participants were singing in harmony.

The festivities for Kartini Day 2025 were also felt by 20 elderly women beneficiaries of the Social Rehabilitation Assistance Program (ATENSI). These women, aged over 70, are still active in their communities. They received packages that included basic food supplies, nutritional items, personal hygiene products, and a traditional kebaya encim. Each recipient’s assistance package was valued at IDR 1,535,000.

Moreover, there was an impressive angklung (traditional Indonesian bamboo instrument) performance by the Bahtera Elderly School from Bekasi Utara. The performance demonstrated that, despite their age, these women continue to be productive and creative, contributing to the arts and their communities.

Through this celebration, the Ministry of Social Affairs underscored the importance of empowering women, promoting gender equality, and honoring the legacy of R.A. Kartini. It served as a reminder that the fight for equal rights and opportunities continues, and it is crucial for women to embrace these opportunities, develop their potential, and contribute to society in various fields.

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