MEDAN | INDATANEWS.COM ~ The 147th Kartini Day celebration at the city level in Medan was marked by a vibrant and inspiring atmosphere on Monday (April 27, 2026). Organized by the Family Welfare Movement Team (TP PKK) of Medan, the event took place at the historic Werenhuis Building on Jalan Hindu, drawing dozens of women from diverse backgrounds.
Participants included women's organizations, TP PKK representatives, local government officials, members of the Medan City DPRD Women's Caucus, spouses of honorary consuls, and female online motorcycle taxi drivers. All attendees wore traditional kebaya attire, reflecting the enduring spirit of Kartini in modern times.
Mayor Rico Tri Putra Bayu Waas and TP PKK Medan Chairwoman Airin Rico Waas were also present, engaging directly with participants who embodied the values of today's Kartini women.
Read Also: Rico Waas Urges Stronger City Cooperation and Fiscal Discipline at APEKSI Conference Inspiring Stories and Cultural PerformancesThis year's Kartini Day celebration went beyond ceremonial proceedings. The organizing committee presented the inspiring life story of Vionita Sinaga, a resilient woman who successfully overcame difficult circumstances to rebuild her life.
Adding to the event's vibrancy, inmates from the Class II A Women's Penitentiary in Medan performed uplifting songs that captivated the audience. A standout performance also came from young violinist Qiara Asqa, a gold medalist at the Asia All Stars Festival, whose appearance drew enthusiastic applause.
Women as Drivers of Family and Society
Read Also: Medan Accelerates Halal Ecosystem Development, Focuses on SMEs In his speech, Mayor
Rico Waas emphasized that Kartini Day serves as a crucial moment to expand opportunities for women to grow, lead, and become more independent.
He described women as "modern Kartinis" who not only act as partners but also as key drivers within families, contributors to household economies, and decision-makers in public life.
"Women are not merely companions. They are a source of comfort and strength, capable of generating great ideas," he stated.
The Medan city government, through its women's empowerment programs, continues to support access to education and practical skills such as sewing, handicrafts, bag-making, clothing production, and fashion design.
"Even if men are primary breadwinners, it does not mean women cannot contribute to family income," he added.
Focus on Violence Prevention and Female Leadership
Mayor
Rico Waas also highlighted ongoing concerns regarding domestic violence and discrimination against women, noting that many cases go unreported due to fear. He urged TP PKK members down to the sub-district level to take a more active role in advocacy and assistance.
"Women must never become outlets for violence. They deserve protection and proper support," he stressed.
He further acknowledged the growing presence of women in leadership roles and strategic sectors, reflecting progress in
gender equality.
Closing his remarks, the mayor extended his appreciation to all women in Medan and conveyed his Kartini Day greetings.
Meanwhile, Airin
Rico Waas emphasized that modern women must remain adaptable and versatile. She encouraged women to continue learning and actively contribute to societal development.
The celebration was further enlivened by an MSME bazaar, exhibitions, and an awards ceremony for a flower arrangement competition involving participants from 21 districts. (IDNC)
REPORTER:
Darmailawati | EDITOR:
Fik Sagala