BALINEWSID.COM, DENPASAR — The commemoration of Kartini Day this year is being called to go beyond mere ceremony and symbolism, instead serving as a critical moment of reflection on the real conditions faced by women in Indonesia today. April 21, 2026.

Inspired by the legacy of Raden Ajeng Kartini, the annual observance is expected to highlight persistent issues affecting women, including rising cases of sexual harassment, domestic violence, abuse, and exploitation.

A strong message came from Bali-based young lawyer Endang Hastuty Bunga, who stressed that women’s issues are no longer just social concerns but have escalated into urgent humanitarian problems.

Endang, who currently serves as Chair of Tunas Himpunan Advokat Muda Indonesia Bali, Head of DPC Peradi Pasni Denpasar, and founder of the Bali Women and Children Care Community, said that women remain in vulnerable positions due to systemic, cultural, and societal biases.

“Women are not weak, but often weakened. Social doctrines that position men as ‘heads’ are frequently misinterpreted, forcing women into silence without space to speak,” she said.

She emphasized that silence only prolongs suffering among women facing injustice. “Silence is not a solution. Women must dare to speak up when treated unfairly,” she asserted.

According to Endang, one of the root causes lies in limited access to education and lack of independence among women, which often traps them in vulnerable situations without the capacity to resist.

“Women must be educated. Education is the key that opens many doors. Without it, women will continue to be in vulnerable positions,” she explained.

She also underlined the importance of financial independence as a form of self-protection, noting that economic capability empowers women to make their own life choices without dependency.

“Women must be able to earn their own income—not to compete with men, but to avoid becoming a burden and to gain control over their lives,” she added.

In professional settings, Endang highlighted the need for balance between emotional strength and rational thinking, encouraging women to remain emotionally resilient while applying logic in decision-making.

She further urged women to shift their perspectives on self-worth, including redefining beauty standards. “Beauty is not just physical; it’s about how women think, act, and create impact,” she said.

Endang also stressed that gender equality is not about competition between men and women, but about partnership built on mutual respect.

“Women and men are not opponents. Equality is about respecting each other, not bringing one another down,” she noted.

In her closing remarks, she called on women across Indonesia to no longer remain passive in the face of injustice.

“Women must be educated, independent, and courageous enough to speak out. If we do not fight for ourselves, no one else will,” she concluded.

This year’s Kartini Day is thus expected to serve as a turning point for Indonesian women to rise, break free from injustice, and stand as strong, independent, and empowered individuals.