inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Indonesian National Police (INP) Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo's statement opening opportunities for female police officers (Polwan) to occupy top positions within the police force has received support from observers.

Sandra Rumanama, founder of the think tank Kontra Narasi, believes that the opportunity for female police officers to advance their careers to become top leaders is part of the leadership transformation within the INP.

"Yes, this must be supported by all elements. The head of state can be a woman, but why can't women lead the police? This is a form of leadership transformation for the future," Sandri said in a written statement in Jakarta, Thursday (9/24/2026).

According to Sandri, these opportunities need to be accompanied by strengthening the capacity, capabilities, and resources of female police officers. He believes that access to career paths also needs to be continuously opened so that female police officers have broader opportunities to occupy strategic positions within the police institution.

Sandra also highlighted the leadership position at the Women's Police School (Sepolwan), which is currently held by officers with the rank of Senior Superintendent.

He proposed that Sepolwan be led by a high-ranking officer with the rank of Police Brigadier General or one-star general.

He believes strengthening leadership within Sepolwan is crucial because the institution plays a strategic role in developing and enhancing the capacity of female police officers.

Previously, INP Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo reaffirmed his commitment to gender equality within the police force. He stated that female police officers have equal opportunity to improve their skills and develop their careers to the highest levels.

Listyo made this statement while opening the 63rd International Association of Women Police (IAWP) Annual Training Conference 2026 in Nusa Dua, Badung Regency, Bali, on Sunday (9/20/2026).

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