On Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, Kowani strengthens women's role in development
The Indonesian Women’s Congress (Kowani) has affirmed its commitment to continuing to support government policies relating to women’s empowerment, economic strengthening, and improving family welfare.
“Kowani encourages various development policies to be implemented inclusively, taking into account the needs of women and families in various regions,” said Kowani Chairwoman Nannie Hadi Tjanjanto during the commemoration of the 81st Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia in Jakarta on Monday.
According to her, the independence anniversary is not only a moment to remember the struggles of heroes, but also a reminder for Indonesian women to continue taking part in national development.
“Now women must become more of a pillar of the nation, giving birth to the next generation who can fill Indonesia’s future,” said Nannie.
She said women hold a strategic position in determining the quality of the next generation. Therefore, the spirit of independence needs to be realised through the concrete contributions of women in various fields, from health, food security and economic empowerment to the protection of the younger generation.
She stressed that Kowani is committed to aligning its organisational programmes with the government’s development agenda and supporting the achievement of the Asta Cita goals.
This commitment is realised through various programmes that address community needs, including strengthening food security, preventing stunting, eradicating drugs, preventing violence, improving public health, and economic empowerment and strengthening.
“Kowani is simply translating what the government’s programmes are. The presence of women must be able to help realise the achievement of the government’s Asta Cita programme,” she said.
This commitment is reinforced by Kowani’s network, which oversees 129 women’s organisations with structures and networks reaching the grassroots level. This network is an important asset for expanding women’s contributions while ensuring that various programmes can provide direct benefits to the community.
On this occasion, Kowani also held various traditional independence day competitions, including cracker eating, tennis ball on the head, marble racing, putting marbles into bottles, balloon dancing, a competition to wear a house dress and make-up, and decorating red-and-white tumpeng.
A number of group games also enlivened the event, such as scooping snacks, marching with eyes closed, moving marbles using chopsticks, and putting ping pong balls into glasses.
Kowani also provided free group exercise and line dancing sessions. In addition to being entertainment, these activities also encouraged an active and healthy lifestyle among participants.