Modern Kartini's Dilemma: Survey Reveals Indonesian Women Neglect Health for Family

Ahead of Kartini Day, a stark reality about the condition of Indonesian women has been revealed through Sun Life’s latest research. Behind their vital role as household financial managers, millions of women are trapped in a dilemma of self-sacrifice for family welfare.

According to data from the Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration (Ditjen Dukcapil) for 2025, there are approximately 142 million women in Indonesia. However, Sun Life’s survey of 3,001 respondents in Asia (including Indonesia) in January 2026 shows that the majority tend to sideline their personal health and financial preparedness.

The survey findings highlight that 57% of Indonesian women have neglected medical care to support the needs of children or elderly parents. These sacrifices extend beyond health to long-term financial aspects.

The following are details of the financial sacrifices made by Indonesian women according to the survey:

The sandwich generation phenomenon remains a real bogeyman. As many as 96% of women anticipate supporting their parents’ care, but only 26% have set aside at least 10% of their income for that purpose. This situation creates what is known as the ‘triple penalty’.

Despite facing significant pressure, Indonesian women hold full control over family finances. As many as 62% of women admit to being the final decision-makers in household finances. This figure rises to 92% for those who are the family breadwinners.

Ironically, amid such great responsibilities, financial literacy and professional guidance remain minimal. Only 13% of women actively involve professional financial advisors. Additionally, while 63% feel their financial condition is better than that of their mothers’ generation, only 19% feel very prepared to face unexpected financial shocks.

Sun Life Indonesia’s President Director, Albertus Wiroyo, emphasised that women’s role as the primary guardians of financial decisions must be supported with practical and relevant solutions.

‘Ahead of Kartini Day, these findings remind us that many resilient women in Indonesia voluntarily sacrifice without being asked. This role deserves appreciation and support with guidance that helps them prioritise their families without sidelining their own futures,’ said Albertus.

He added that access to comprehensive financial information is crucial so that Indonesian women’s long-term planning becomes stronger, stable, and sustainable in the future.