When Women Hold Back for the Sake of Family, Who Safeguards Their Future?

In many Indonesian families, women often serve as silent pillars of support. They ensure household needs are met, even if it means suppressing their own requirements, from health to long-term financial planning. This phenomenon is not merely an everyday story but is reflected in data. A Sun Life survey indicates that 57% of Indonesian women have ignored medical treatment to support children, parents, or the elderly. At this point, sacrifice becomes a choice deemed normal, despite its significant risks. Furthermore, this sacrifice extends to financial decisions. As many as 82% of women reduce personal spending on recreation, 30% limit investment opportunities, and 28% postpone retirement savings. Meanwhile, 51% cite high healthcare costs as one of the three main barriers to financial security. “Ahead of Kartini Day, these findings remind us that many resilient women in Indonesia voluntarily sacrifice without being asked,” he said in an official statement on Tuesday (14/4/2026). However, behind this resilience lies a deeper question: until when can this sacrifice continue without jeopardising the women’s own futures? “This role deserves to be appreciated and respected, while also being supported with solutions and guidance that help women prioritise their families without sidelining their own futures,” he added. As many as 96% of women anticipate supporting the elderly care of their parents, either now or in the future. However, only 26% have set aside at least 10% of their income for such needs. This gap then creates real financial pressure. As a result, a layered burden or triple penalty emerges. As many as 59% of respondents say caregiving responsibilities hinder improvements in financial security, 47% impact their careers, and 47% limit their ability to care for themselves. Amid this pressure, Indonesian women hold a key role in household finances. As many as 62% of respondents are the final decision-makers in family finances, and even 92% of those who are the family breadwinners hold that position. Nevertheless, only 13% actively involve professional financial advisors. This means major decisions are often made with limited access to adequate guidance and planning.