When women are empowered, family economies strengthen with PNM

Jakarta – In Indonesia, one of the key initiatives focused on women’s empowerment is implemented through the PNM Mekaar (Prospering Family Economy Building) programme, which has served more than 22.9 million disadvantaged women to date.

According to data from the Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) in 2024, approximately 64.5 per cent of UMKM (micro, small and medium enterprises) operators in Indonesia are women, equivalent to more than 37 million women running businesses across various economic sectors. UMKMs contribute approximately 61 per cent to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP), demonstrating that small-scale economic activity predominantly operated by women has a tangible impact on economic stability within communities.

Through the PNM Mekaar programme, women gain not only access to capital but also continuous mentorship ranging from business training, capacity development, and strengthening of social networks amongst customers.

This support extends beyond improving family economic conditions, fostering the growth of women’s leadership in surrounding communities. According to research conducted by Fisipol UGM in 2022, 71.86 per cent of PNM Mekaar customers play a role in family decision-making, particularly regarding finances, children’s education, and other household needs.

Furthermore, within customer meeting groups, women have begun assuming positions as group leaders who direct and mobilise other members. This demonstrates that women’s empowerment extends beyond business expansion; it also creates space for women to gain greater confidence in assuming important roles within their families and communities.

This commitment is also reflected in PNM’s financing approach. Currently, approximately 73 per cent of PNM financing is Sharia-based, providing a more inclusive financing alternative for communities. This approach has been recognised by Warta Ekonomi through the Indonesia Sharia and Halal Top Brand Awards 2026, where PNM received the award for Indonesia Best Sharia Business Unit of Financial Services 2026 with Inclusive Financing Scheme to Strengthen Economic Empowerment in the Sharia Business Unit of Financial Service category.

PNM Company Secretary Dodot Patria Ary stated that women’s empowerment is an important component of PNM’s efforts to strengthen family economies.

“We observe how women demonstrate remarkable resilience in maintaining family life whilst developing their businesses. Through PNM Mekaar, we want to ensure they do not walk this path alone. Not only through access to financing, but also through mentorship and learning spaces so their businesses can grow and bring better hope for their families,” said Dodot.

PNM will continue expanding access to empowerment for disadvantaged women so that increasingly more Indonesian women have the opportunity to develop, strengthen their businesses, and contribute to family and community wellbeing.

Behind the many small businesses that survive and grow today are women who choose to continue striving, nurturing hope, and moving forward for their families’ futures.