Ibas Encourages Women as Drivers of Rural Economy and Tourism
Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian People’s Consultative Assembly and Chairman of the Democratic Faction in the House of Representatives, Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas), reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening women’s role as a primary pillar of rural development. This was conveyed during a technical guidance socialisation event for the Ramadan recess circuit in the East Java VII electoral district on Sunday (1 March).
Under the theme “Resilient, Empowered Women and Prosperous Families”, Ibas stated that women possess tremendous potential in driving the tourism ecosystem and creative economy at the village level.
“Central Bureau of Statistics data shows that over 64 per cent of MSME entrepreneurs are women. This is a major force in national economic development, particularly in the rural tourism sector which has become a strategic sectoral focus,” Ibas said in a statement on Sunday (1 March).
Ibas formulated four main commitments to transform women’s roles in rural areas. First, economic strengthening through improved access to capital and MSME digitalisation. Second, oversight of the stunting reduction programme through nutrition education at community health centres (Posyandu).
Third, enhancement of digital literacy so that village flagship products can compete in national markets. Finally, reinforcement of the Four Pillars of the People’s Consultative Assembly as the foundation of national life.
“If women are strong, families are strong. If families are strong, this nation will be strong,” said the member of Commission VI of the House of Representatives.
In an open dialogue session, participants raised various field challenges, ranging from the need for technical guidance for Ponorogo specialty food entrepreneurs to the provision of promotional spaces in strategic tourism areas such as Benteng and Trinil Museum.
Responding to these issues, Ibas emphasised the importance of inclusive tourism development. According to him, local communities should not merely be spectators but must become principal economic actors through collaboration with regional authorities.
“MSME development must be carried out sustainably, based on regional needs, and strengthened through creative branding and promotion so that our local products can penetrate the national market,” he added.
Closing his remarks, Ibas invited all women to make the holy month of Ramadan a “character school” that builds integrity and social solidarity. Quoting the spirit of RA Kartini, he hoped that this year’s Ramadan would become a turning point for rural women to become more economically and socially empowered.