National Women’s Day 2025, A Beautiful Reminder of the Importance the Role of Indonesian Women
As a reminder of the importance of women’s struggles around the world to achieve gender equality and empowerment, including in Indonesia. Indonesia celebrates National Women’s Day (HPN) every March 8 to honor and appreciate women’s contributions in various fields of life.
It was first commemorated on March 8, 1928 in response to the struggle of women in Indonesia who were members of women’s organizations that focused on women’s rights, including voting rights in elections. Currently, HPN is an opportunity to re-evaluate the achievements and difficulties faced by women in various aspects of social, economic, and political life.
According to the UN Women website, the UN sets a theme for International Women’s Day each year. This year, the UN has set the theme “For every woman and girl: Rights, Equality, and Independence”.
The theme is “For All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, and Empowerment”, and invites people around the world to work together to realize equal rights, equality, and opportunities for all.
Ishlah Wahdini, a ULM staff member, said that HPN is not just a symbolic moment once a year, but a beautiful reminder of how strong, gentle, intelligent, and influential women are in our daily lives.
In today’s era of globalization, women’s empowerment has received greater attention. Although much progress has been made, women still face many challenges in various aspects of their lives.
“The biggest challenges faced by Indonesian women today are dual and layered because women are often at the crossroads of social expectations, cultural pressures, and the reality of life that is constantly changing.” she said.
Ishlah also explained the various challenges faced by Indonesian women today, such as:
- Double Standards in Gender Roles
Women are still often burdened with the expectation to “have to be all-rounders”: successful in their careers, but still good at taking care of the house; independent, but not too dominant; beautiful, but not too prominent.
“If you are too active, you are called ambitious. If you are quiet, you are called unenthusiastic.” which sometimes makes women feel confused.
- Inequality of Economic & Career Opportunities
Many women are still trapped in the informal sector / do not get strategic positions due to gender bias. Even when working hard, women can be paid lower than men in the same position.
- Third, Mental Stress & Emotional Health
Women are often the “guardians of the family’s emotions” who are always required to be strong and patient, even though they themselves are not necessarily fine. Women’s mental health is often ignored, even by themselves.
“Women are like the sun, sometimes warm, sometimes stinging, but always there to shine. Whether she is a mother, teacher, friend, worker, leader, or young person with big dreams, all have extraordinary roles that deserve to be celebrated and appreciated every day,” she added.
Lastly, a Message from Ishlah for Indonesian Women
Indonesian Women, you are great
In a world that is sometimes not completely fair, you keep walking, keep surviving, and even keep giving love. You grow under pressure, but don’t forget to share warmth. You are hurt, but remain a protector for others.
On this National Women’s Day, allow yourself:
To feel proud of your steps, no matter how small.
To pause and embrace yourself.
To know that you don’t have to be perfect to be worthy of respect.
To speak up without fear, and to dream without limits.
Remember, never hesitate to be the best version of yourself, not the version the world forces upon you.
Because the world needs more women who live as themselves…with courage, tenderness, and authenticity.
Happy National Women’s Day.
Keep shining, in your own way.
