Through Kartini BISA Fest, Telkom Encourages Women to Grow and Empower Themselves with Technology

To commemorate Hari Kartini, PT Telkom Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (Telkom) has presented the Kartini BISA Fest series, taking place in Jakarta from 20-24 April 2026. Under the theme Empowered by Technology, this programme embodies Telkom’s commitment to making technology a solution that impacts society, particularly by encouraging women to become more empowered, productive, and ready to take on strategic roles in the digital era. Telkom views technology not only as connectivity but also as a means to open opportunities, create empowerment, and bring about more inclusive change. This is increasingly relevant given that women currently play a crucial role in driving the national economy. Data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) for 2024 records that 64.5 per cent or around 37 million UMKM actors in Indonesia are run by women. On the other hand, the development of digital spaces presents new challenges, from increasing risks of online gender-based violence and cyberbullying to the misuse of personal data. Therefore, Telkom reinterprets the philosophy of “When Darkness Ends, Light Shall Emerge” inherited from RA Kartini, where technology serves as a lamp that not only illuminates but also empowers. Through Kartini BISA Fest, Telkom delivers women’s empowerment through a comprehensive approach, particularly in encouraging women as drivers of digital UMKM. In addition to promoting women’s empowerment from an economic perspective, Telkom also pays significant attention to digital security, especially for the younger generation. Through digital security education attended by 350 participants, consisting of 50 junior high school girls offline and 250 girls and teachers online from various regions, Telkom highlights the importance of creating a safe digital space free from bullying. In the talkshow session at Kartini BISA Fest, Telkom’s OVP Cybersecurity Elysabeth Damayanti discussed anticipatory steps against various technology risks, including digital-based bullying which is increasingly prevalent among women. Talkshow participants were also equipped with practical understanding of ethics in digital interactions, personal data protection, and the courage to act and protect themselves. Elysabeth stated that the digital space must be a safe place to learn, grow, and express oneself. Therefore, it is important for young women to have awareness from an early age in safeguarding personal data, understanding social media ethics, and being bold in critically addressing various digital threats. “With the right literacy, women can not only utilise technology but also protect themselves and others in the cyber world,” said Elysabeth in a statement quoted on Thursday (23/4/2026). Furthermore, Telkom promotes digital capabilities through training on the utilisation of artificial intelligence (AI), enabling female UMKM actors to create promotional content and build webstores in a more practical and effective manner. Through the generative AI workshop, participants were equipped with the ability to generate up to 100 AI-based digital contents to support marketing on social media. This strengthening is complemented by a talkshow session discussing how to Build a Relatable Brand through Storytelling on Social Media. This session emphasises the importance of branding and storytelling in building closeness with consumers. On the fundamental business aspect, Telkom provides facilitation for 2,250 halal certifications (regular and self-declared) as well as BPOM certifications, accompanied by product identity strengthening through rebranding and packaging grants targeting production of 500,000 packages in 2026. Not only focusing on economic and digital literacy aspects, Kartini BISA Fest also presents a creative and inclusive expression space through the Woman in Act session. Various activities are offered, from a fashion show competition participated in by female TelkomGroup employees as an effort to promote UMKM craft products, skills workshops involving 30 assisted UMKM, to a culinary bazaar for 40 UMKM. The entire series serves as a platform for women to showcase their works, hone skills, and expand networks. The involvement of UMKM actors, including women with disabilities, reflects Telkom’s real commitment to building an equal ecosystem and opening spaces for all women to grow and empower together. More than just a celebration, Kartini BISA Fest serves as proof that when utilised appropriately, technology can be a lamp that lights the way to empowerment. From strengthening digital capacity, improving business quality, to creating safe digital spaces, every step is part of Telkom’s efforts to encourage women to step further. Ultimately, the spirit of Empowered by Technology is not just a message but a collective movement to build a more inclusive and sustainable future.