Sylviana Murni says men are not competitors but partners

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy Governor of DKI Jakarta for Culture and Tourism from 2015-2016, Sylviana Murni, stated that men are not competitors but partners who can serve as fellow learners. “Men are not competitors. But partners who must learn from each other. That is what is important,” she said during a podcast organised by the DKI Jakarta Manpower, Transmigration, and Energy Agency, coinciding with Kartini Day celebrations, in Jakarta on Tuesday. Sylviana, who has held at least 11 positions within the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government, said she regards her husband as a wingless angel, a figure who encourages his wife to be productive. “A husband who always encourages his wife. Does not make his wife a competitor. Who encourages her to reach her potential. Why would he think so cruelly if he feels his wife has potential, then forbids her,” she said. During her approximately 31 years in the bureaucracy, she acknowledged that there are still structural challenges faced by women. To address these challenges, she advised women to strengthen their own capacities. “Strengthening self-capacity. Self-leadership through education and competence. Working professionally and disciplined. One aspect of professionalism is discipline. To become a professional, go to school to the fullest. That is why schooling does not stop,” she stated. In addition to strengthening self-capacity, the former DPD RI member also advised women to build credibility based on performance, collaborate, and network. “I have positions that have connections everywhere. Alhamdulillah, I maintain them well. I feel that women cannot go alone without collaboration. Especially metropolitan women. Currently, they must be adaptive but not lose their identity as ethical and dignified women,” she said.