inp.polri.go.id - Badung. The Indonesian National Police (INP) Chief encouraged Indonesian female police officers to continue improving their capacity and preparing themselves for strategic positions within the police force.
He even opened up the possibility that a female police officer could hold the top leadership position in the future.
He delivered this message at the opening of the 63rd International Association of Women Police (IAWP) Annual Training Conference 2026 in Bali on Sunday (9/20/2026).
The international conference, held at The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Badung, brought together 450 participants from 43 countries. Indonesia was the largest delegation with 164 participants, followed by Tanzania (48), Canada (36), the United States (19), the United Kingdom (18), and Australia (16).
In his remarks, the INP Chief emphasized that all female police officers must have equal opportunities to develop and reach the highest levels of leadership.
He cited several countries that have placed women in top police positions, including Australia, the Netherlands, and Barbados.
"One day, the INP may be led by a female police officer, as demonstrated by our partner countries, including Australia, the Netherlands, and Barbados," said Chief Sigit.
This message aligns with the IAWP 2026 theme, "Women Leading Global Change." According to him, women are not only part of change, but also have the capacity to lead change.
The journey of Indonesian policewomen has been ongoing since 1948. Currently, of the more than 450,000 Indonesian National Police personnel, approximately 6.2 percent, or 29,000, are female police officers.
However, the challenge of gender equality remains significant. Chief Sigit cited the Global Gender Gap Report 2025, which stated that the world still needs approximately 123 years to achieve full gender equality.
The commitment to the development of female police officers is also demonstrated through the HeForShe Award, which is given annually to outstanding female police officers. The INP Chief himself received the HeForShe Award from the IAWP in 2023.
Sigit also urged all female police officers to continuously improve themselves and prepare themselves to become future leaders.
"Continue to strive for excellence, strengthen your capabilities, and prepare yourselves to become the leaders of the future," he said.
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