JAKARTA – Sri Mulyani Indrawati, Indonesia’s Minister of Finance and a distinguished member of the Indonesia Maju Cabinet, marked the occasion of Kartini Day on April 21st, joining the nation in honoring the pioneering spirit of Raden Ajeng Kartini. Amidst her participation in the Spring Meetings of the IMF and World Bank, as well as the G20 Summit in Washington D.C., Sri Mulyani took a moment to revisit a letter penned by Estella Zeehandelaar, RA Kartini’s pen pal, dated May 25, 1899.
“Reflecting on a letter from Raden Ajeng Kartini to Miss Zeehandelaar, written on May 25, 1899, during my formative years, the concept of women’s emancipation was yet to permeate my consciousness. However, within the depths of my being, a profound longing for freedom, autonomy, and self-reliance began to germinate,” she shared on her Instagram account @smindrawati, Sunday (4/21/2024).
Adorned in traditional batik attire, Sri Mulyani paid tribute to the enduring wisdom encapsulated in the writings of RA Kartini, whose legacy continues to inspire.
She underscored the pivotal role of women in advancing societal progress, emphasizing that women’s empowerment is synonymous with national development. “Whether through entrepreneurial ventures, professional pursuits, or active engagement in political discourse and policymaking, the advancement of women heralds a brighter future for our nation,” Sri Mulyani asserted.
Fondly referred to as Ani, she urged women to perpetuate the indomitable spirit of Kartini, whose ideals remain as pertinent today as they were in the past. Sri Mulyani championed the expansion of educational opportunities for women and their increased participation in social, economic, and political spheres. Gender equality emerged as a focal point of discussions during her engagements in the United States capital.
“The ethos of women’s emancipation, epitomized by Kartini’s enduring legacy, will continue to guide my actions, both domestically and on the global stage, where gender equality remains a paramount concern,” she concluded.
