GKR Hemas Receives Leading Women Awards 2026
REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA – Deputy Chair of the DPD RI for Regional Autonomy, Politics, and Law, GKR Hemas, received the CNN Indonesia Leading Women Awards 2026 in the Outstanding Leader in Public Advocacy and Representation category.
This award was given for her steadfast commitment to sustainably and principled advocacy of public issues, as well as her consistent efforts to strengthen regional roles, empower women, and preserve cultural values within the modern democratic system.
In response to the award, GKR Hemas expressed her gratitude and ongoing dedication.
“I am very grateful to CNN Indonesia and the judges for giving this appreciation. This award is not just for me personally, but for all Indonesian women who struggle to voice justice and equality in their respective regions,” she said in a brief speech after the event, quoted on Thursday (7/5/2026).
Furthermore, the senator from the Special Region of Yogyakarta emphasised that public advocacy must be grounded in local values and prioritised for grassroots communities.
“I believe true advocacy arises from directly listening to citizens’ complaints, not from closed meeting rooms. Therefore, I will continue to push for regional voices to never be drowned out by centralised policy currents,” she asserted.
GKR Hemas also highlighted the importance of women’s empowerment as the spearhead of social change. When a woman dares to speak out for public interests, she is actually opening the door for a hundred other women to do the same.
“This award is a reminder that our work is still very long,” she added with an emotional tone.
The Leading Women Awards 2026 event, held in Jakarta, was also attended by several national figures and public personalities. GKR Hemas concluded her statement with a message for the younger generation, especially young women who want to engage in advocacy and politics.
“Don’t be afraid to start from small things. Consistency and integrity will ultimately speak louder than mere positions or popularity. Keep learning, keep moving, and never stop fighting for what is right,” GKR Hemas concluded.