inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Puan Maharani, emphasized that women have a strategic role as primary subjects in determining the nation's journey, coinciding with the commemoration of Kartini Day 2026.

"Indonesian women no longer need to prove their worth. The question now is not 'whether,' but 'how far,' and 'with what system'," said Puan, Tuesday (4/21/2026).

She encouraged the public to use Kartini Day as a reflection on the contributions of women, who have been an integral part of the nation's progress from the beginning.

According to her, women are not objects of development, but rather active figures who help determine the direction of the Republic of Indonesia. 

Puan emphasized that the involvement of women in development is not merely an affirmative policy, but a form of respect for human dignity and a strategy to improve Indonesia's competitiveness.

Furthermore, she reminded that women's unique life experiences should not be reduced solely to domestic roles. This perspective needs to be included in decision-making processes across various sectors.

"Women not only need to be in decision-making positions, but they must also participate in designing those positions," stressed Puan.

She also encouraged all parties to ensure women's representation and perspectives continue to be integrated into public policy, considering that women constitute half of Indonesia's population.

concluded by urging all Indonesian women to continue contributing to the nation's progress.

(ad/ndt/pr/rs)