Bambang Pamungkas
CNBC Indonesia is set to host its inaugural Top Women Fest 2026, an empowering summit dedicated to recognizing and amplifying the pivotal contributions of Indonesian women across diverse sectors, scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 16:00 to 18:30 WIB, at the iconic Sarinah Relief Area in Jakarta. Themed "A Celebration of Powerful Women: Strong Women, Strong Economy," the event serves as a collaborative platform for leading female figures to exchange insights, foster innovation, and chart a course for a more inclusive and robust national economy, drawing profound inspiration from the enduring legacy of Raden Ajeng Kartini. This initiative underscores CNBC Indonesia’s commitment to highlighting the indispensable role of women in shaping Indonesia’s economic landscape and fostering a more equitable society.
The Enduring Legacy of Kartini and Modern Empowerment
Every year, April 21st marks Kartini Day, a national observance that serves as a powerful reminder of Raden Ajeng Kartini’s pioneering spirit and her unwavering fight for gender equality and women’s emancipation in Indonesia. Born into an aristocratic Javanese family in 1879, Kartini’s life was a testament to the struggle against restrictive traditional norms that limited women’s access to education and public life. Her poignant letters, posthumously compiled into "Habis Gelap Terbitlah Terang" (Darkness Dispelled by Light), articulated a passionate plea for women’s right to education, intellectual freedom, and social agency. Kartini envisioned a society where women could contribute fully to national development, not merely confined to domestic roles. Her early death at 25 cut short her direct activism, but her ideas ignited a nationwide movement that continues to resonate today.
In contemporary Indonesia, Kartini’s spirit is vibrantly alive in the myriad accomplishments of women across a spectrum of fields. From the intricate world of diplomacy, where Indonesian women adeptly navigate international relations, to the foundational pillars of education, shaping future generations, and the dynamic realm of entrepreneurship, driving economic growth and innovation, to the critical frontlines of environmental conservation, women are increasingly at the forefront. They stand as inspirational figures, spearheading tangible changes and contributing significantly to societal progress. This modern manifestation of Kartini’s ideals underscores a continuous journey towards comprehensive gender equality, particularly in ensuring equitable access to education and opportunities that empower women to realize their full potential. The Top Women Fest 2026 is conceived as a modern tribute to this enduring legacy, a space for reflection and celebration of these contributions, and a catalyst for future achievements.
Women’s Indispensable Role in Indonesia’s Economy
The economic narrative of Indonesia cannot be fully told without acknowledging the indispensable contributions of its women. According to data from Statistics Indonesia (BPS) and various economic reports, women constitute a significant portion of the country’s workforce, with female labor force participation rates steadily climbing. While challenges persist, particularly in leadership roles and certain male-dominated sectors, the impact of women entrepreneurs, professionals, and policymakers is increasingly profound. Women-owned micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), for instance, are a vital engine of the Indonesian economy, contributing substantially to GDP and job creation, particularly in rural areas and informal sectors. These enterprises often demonstrate remarkable resilience and innovation, acting as crucial pillars for local economies and community development.
Beyond entrepreneurship, Indonesian women are making significant strides in corporate leadership, public service, and specialized fields. Their presence in C-suite positions, ministerial roles, and diplomatic missions is growing, bringing diverse perspectives and leadership styles that are crucial for complex problem-solving and sustainable development. However, despite these advancements, disparities remain. The World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report, while acknowledging Indonesia’s progress in areas like educational attainment, still points to gaps in economic participation and opportunity, as well as political empowerment. These challenges highlight the ongoing need for platforms such as the Top Women Fest, which not only celebrate achievements but also provide a forum to discuss barriers, propose solutions, and foster an environment conducive to greater female economic participation and leadership. By bringing together diverse female leaders, the event aims to bridge these gaps and collectively strategize on how to maximize women’s economic potential, thereby strengthening Indonesia’s overall competitiveness and resilience on the global stage.
Top Women Fest 2026: A Platform for Vision and Action
CNBC Indonesia, a leading business and financial news platform, has long been at the forefront of economic discourse in the nation. Its initiative to launch the Top Women Fest 2026 stems from a deep-seated recognition of the critical link between women’s empowerment and national economic prosperity. The festival is more than just an event; it is a strategic platform designed to foster a dynamic environment where vision meets action. By curating a diverse group of prominent women leaders from both public and private sectors, the Fest aims to transcend traditional discussions and delve into actionable strategies for economic advancement. The overarching goal is to facilitate a collaborative ecosystem where ideas are exchanged, inspiration is kindled, and tangible solutions for Indonesia’s economic future are collectively forged.
The event’s structure is meticulously crafted to maximize engagement and impact, featuring a keynote address by a leading figure in the financial regulatory landscape, two distinct "Inspiring Talk Shows" that delve into critical aspects of leadership and national development, and supplementary educational sessions designed to enhance participants’ personal and professional growth. This comprehensive approach ensures that attendees not only gain inspiration from accomplished leaders but also acquire practical knowledge and tools. CNBC Indonesia’s commitment extends beyond mere reporting; through initiatives like the Top Women Fest, it actively participates in shaping the national dialogue around crucial socio-economic issues, promoting diversity, and advocating for policies that support inclusive growth.
Unpacking the Inspiring Talk Shows
The core of the Top Women Fest 2026 lies in its two "Inspiring Talk Shows," each meticulously curated to explore different facets of women’s leadership and their impact on Indonesia’s trajectory. These sessions promise to offer invaluable insights from women who are at the pinnacle of their respective fields.
Talk Show 1: "Perempuan Penggerak Negara: Leadership Shaping Indonesia’s Future"
This panel will delve into the profound influence of women in strategic leadership roles, particularly those whose decisions shape national policy and economic direction. The discussion will explore how these leaders navigate complex challenges, drive innovation, and contribute to sustainable development across various sectors. The distinguished panelists for this session include:
- Farida Farichah, Vice Minister of Cooperatives: Her insights will focus on the vital role of cooperatives and MSMEs in strengthening economic resilience at the grassroots level, a sector predominantly driven by women. She is expected to discuss policy frameworks supporting women entrepreneurs and cooperative development.
- Marie Elka Pangestu, Vice Chair of the National Economic Council: A seasoned economist and former Minister of Trade, Ms. Pangestu will bring a macro-economic perspective, discussing national economic policy, international trade dynamics, and Indonesia’s position in the global economy, emphasizing the role of women in these strategic areas.
- Febriany Eddy, Managing Director of Danantara Asset Management: Representing the financial sector, Ms. Eddy will share her expertise on investment strategies, capital markets, and the importance of financial literacy and inclusion for women, highlighting how women leaders are navigating and transforming the finance industry.
- Melati Sarnita, President Director of Inalum (PT Indonesia Asahan Aluminium): As a leader in a strategic state-owned enterprise (SOE) focusing on the mining and aluminum industry, Ms. Sarnita will offer perspectives on leading large-scale operations, contributing to national industrial development, and fostering diversity within traditionally male-dominated sectors.
- Nurdiana Darus, Director of Communication, Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at Unilever Indonesia: Ms. Darus will address corporate sustainability, ethical business practices, and the role of effective communication in building brand trust and driving positive social impact, showcasing how women leaders champion corporate responsibility.
The discussion is anticipated to cover topics ranging from innovative policy-making to fostering sustainable economic growth and building robust public-private partnerships, all through the lens of women’s leadership.
Talk Show 2: "Memimpin dengan Hati dan Visi" (Leading with Heart and Vision)
This session will explore the nuanced aspects of leadership that combine empathy, intuition, and strategic foresight. It aims to showcase how leaders can inspire teams, drive organizational change, and achieve impactful results by integrating emotional intelligence with clear strategic direction. The panel features:
- Dyah Roro, Vice Minister of Trade: Ms. Roro will likely discuss trade policies, market access for Indonesian products, and fostering international economic relations, emphasizing how a "heart and vision" approach can enhance diplomatic and trade negotiations.
- Stella Christie, Vice Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology: Her insights will be crucial on human capital development, fostering innovation, and preparing Indonesia’s workforce for future challenges, focusing on the role of education and research in national progress and how empathetic leadership can drive educational reforms.
- Raisha Syarfuan, President Director of PT Sarinah: Leading Indonesia’s oldest department store, which has been revitalized as a cultural and creative hub, Ms. Syarfuan will share her experience in national branding, promoting local products, and preserving cultural heritage, demonstrating leadership that connects with national identity.
- Tribuana Tunggadewi, Human Capital Director of PT Pegadaian: Ms. Tunggadewi will discuss strategies for talent management, employee welfare, and building a high-performance organizational culture, highlighting the importance of human-centric leadership in fostering a motivated workforce.
- Rista Qatrini Manurung, Director of Legal and Compliance at AIA: Ms. Manurung will provide perspectives on corporate governance, legal frameworks, and ensuring ethical compliance within the financial services industry, showcasing how meticulous attention to detail and a clear vision are vital in regulatory leadership.
These discussions will illuminate the diverse ways women leaders are shaping strategic decision-making, fostering business development, and strengthening the national economy, offering insights that are both relevant and applicable across various professional contexts.
Key Insights and Practical Empowerment
Beyond the engaging talk shows, the Top Women Fest 2026 is designed to deliver comprehensive value. A highlight of the event will be the keynote speech delivered by Friderica Widyasari, Chairperson of the OJK Board of Commissioners. Her address is anticipated to provide critical insights into the financial regulatory landscape, the importance of financial literacy and inclusion, and how these factors empower women economically. OJK’s role in ensuring a stable and accessible financial system is paramount for women seeking to start businesses, invest, or manage their finances effectively. Ms. Widyasari’s perspective will undoubtedly offer strategic guidance for women navigating the complexities of the financial world.
Furthermore, recognizing that empowerment extends beyond economic prowess, the Fest will incorporate educational sessions led by experts in beauty and finance. These practical workshops aim to equip participants with tools to enhance their quality of life, both personally and professionally. Financial literacy sessions will cover topics such as investment, savings, and wealth management, providing actionable advice for securing financial independence. Beauty and wellness sessions will underscore the importance of self-care and confidence, acknowledging the holistic nature of empowerment. This blend of strategic discussions, regulatory insights, and practical skill-building ensures that the Top Women Fest 2026 offers a multifaceted approach to women’s development, opening new opportunities and fostering a sense of holistic well-being among its participants. The interactive nature of the event, with opportunities for networking and Q&A, will further facilitate collaborative problem-solving and the forging of valuable connections.
Strategic Partnerships and Support
The successful staging of an event of this magnitude is a testament to the power of strategic partnerships and shared vision. The Top Women Fest CNBC Indonesia 2026 is proudly sponsored by a consortium of leading companies that demonstrate a strong commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment. These include PT Pegadaian, a state-owned financial institution known for its inclusive financial services; PT Bank BTPN Syariah Tbk, a sharia-compliant bank dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs, especially those in underserved communities; AIA, a prominent life insurance provider committed to health and financial security; Sanga-Sanga, and PT Indonesia Asahan Aluminium (Inalum), a major player in Indonesia’s strategic industries. Their invaluable support underscores a growing corporate recognition of the business and societal benefits of investing in women.
Additionally, the event is strongly supported by Sarinah, which serves as the host venue. Sarinah holds a unique and significant place in Indonesian history and culture. Established in 1962 by President Sukarno, it was the country’s first department store, envisioned as a symbol of modernity and a platform for showcasing Indonesian products to the world. Its recent revitalization has transformed it into a vibrant cultural hub, blending retail with arts, community spaces, and culinary experiences. Hosting the Top Women Fest at Sarinah is symbolically powerful, connecting the contemporary aspirations of Indonesian women with a landmark that represents national identity, progress, and economic resilience. These partnerships are crucial, not only for the logistical execution of the event but also for amplifying its message and demonstrating a collective commitment across various sectors to champion women’s roles in economic development.
Broader Impact and Future Outlook
The Top Women Fest 2026 is poised to generate significant broader impacts, extending beyond the immediate attendees and the event itself. By convening influential female leaders and fostering dialogue on critical economic issues, the festival directly contributes to Indonesia’s national development goals, particularly Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5: Gender Equality, which aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. Such platforms play a crucial role in shaping public discourse, influencing policy recommendations, and driving corporate strategies towards greater inclusivity and diversity. The insights and recommendations emanating from the discussions could inform future government policies related to women’s entrepreneurship, access to finance, leadership development, and STEM education for girls.
Furthermore, by showcasing diverse role models and success stories, the event serves as a powerful source of inspiration for the next generation of women leaders and entrepreneurs. It demonstrates that barriers can be overcome and that women’s contributions are not only valued but essential for national prosperity. The role of media platforms like CNBC Indonesia in facilitating such initiatives is pivotal; by leveraging its extensive reach and influence, CNBC Indonesia can amplify the voices of women leaders, challenge stereotypes, and promote a more progressive narrative around gender equality in the economic sphere. The inaugural Top Women Fest is envisioned as the beginning of an ongoing commitment, with aspirations for it to become an annual fixture in Indonesia’s event calendar, continually evolving to address emerging challenges and celebrate the ever-growing achievements of Indonesian women. This long-term vision aims to create a sustained ecosystem of support, mentorship, and collaboration that propels Indonesia towards a future where "Strong Women" undeniably lead to a "Strong Economy."
Event Logistics and Call to Action
The CNBC Indonesia Top Women Fest 2026 is scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 16:00 to 18:30 WIB, at the Sarinah Relief Area in Jakarta. This empowering event is open to the general public, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds who are eager to be inspired, learn, and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about women’s leadership and economic impact. Prospective attendees are encouraged to secure their participation by registering through the dedicated link: bit.ly/TopWomenFest2026. This is a unique opportunity to engage with prominent figures, gain valuable insights, and become part of a movement celebrating the strength and vision of Indonesian women shaping the nation’s future.
