Indonesia sees greater women's role in economy, decision-making

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Minister Arifah Fauzi stated that over the past two years, her ministry has driven tangible progress, with women playing an increasingly prominent role in the economy and decision-making.

"The gender pay gap was narrowed from 21.89 percent in 2024 to 20.27 percent in 2025," Fauzi said in Jakarta on Wednesday.

Additionally, the proportion of women holding managerial positions rose from 35.49 percent in 2024 to 36.68 percent in 2025.

Fauzi noted that her ministry contributed to these gains through targeted policies, cross-sector partnerships, and empowerment initiatives.

"In Yogyakarta, for instance, 102 women took part in a business capacity-building program. As a result, 10 entrepreneurs obtained Business Identification Numbers (NIB), and partnerships were secured with three buyers," she said.

She stressed that the ministry believes empowerment efforts must extend beyond basic training to secure direct market access and income-generating opportunities.

Over the past two years of the Prabowo-Gibran administration, the ministry has implemented strategic measures to improve women's quality of life, expand support services for violence victims, fulfill children's rights, and strengthen safeguards for vulnerable youth.

These initiatives align with the administration's Asta Cita agenda and the 2025–2029 National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN) toward the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.

"These past two years remind us that behind every policy lies a woman’s hope for self-reliance and a child’s dream of growing up free from fear," Fauzi said.

She added that key indicators reflect positive trends, citing expanded job opportunities for women, declining rates of child marriage and child labor, and broader access to victim protection services.

To sustain this momentum, the ministry remains committed to expanding the quality and reach of services for women and children nationwide.

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Translator: Anita Permata, Raka Adji
Editor: Arie Novarina
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