BALI, RAKYAT NEWS – In a significant move to mark International Women’s Day, the Australian government has reinforced its partnership with Indonesia to advance gender equality. The collaboration was highlighted during a discussion held in Denpasar, Bali, on March 8, 2025, organized by the Australian Consulate General and the Denpasar City Government.

The event aimed to celebrate women’s achievements and address ongoing challenges in achieving gender parity.

Australian Consul General Jo Stevans emphasized the importance of gender equality in reducing poverty, strengthening social cohesion, and boosting economic productivity. “We are working with Indonesia and other nations to inspire future generations and create a better future for all,” Stevans stated. The Australian government has been actively supporting initiatives that empower women, particularly through education and skill development programs.

One of the key contributions by the Australian Consulate General is its support for the Bali Wise program, run by the Rivers, Oceans, Lands, and Ecology (ROLE) Foundation. This initiative focuses on providing marginalized women with vocational training and fostering sustainable communities in Indonesia. The program has been instrumental in equipping women with the skills needed to secure employment and improve their livelihoods.

Sagung Antari Jaya Negara, Chair of the Denpasar Family Welfare Movement (PKK), highlighted the significance of International Women’s Day as more than just a celebration. “It is a time to reflect on the struggles, achievements, and challenges women face in their pursuit of equality and justice,” she said. The day serves as a reminder of the progress made and the work still needed to ensure gender equity.

To kick off the International Women’s Day celebrations, the Australian Consulate General and the Denpasar City Government hosted a panel discussion titled “Women as Agents of Change” on March 7, 2025. The event featured prominent speakers, including Prof. Dr. Ni Putu Tirka Widanti, Rector of Ngurah Rai University; Handoko Rama, Leader of the ROLE Foundation; and Laksmi DeNeefe Suardana, Puteri Indonesia and Miss Universe Indonesia 2022. The discussion centered on the United Nations’ global theme for International Women’s Day, focusing on women’s rights, equality, and strategies to advance gender parity.

The event also saw participation from representatives of local universities and the Denpasar City Government, including I Gusti Agung Sri Wetrawati, Head of the Women’s Empowerment, Child Protection, Population Control, and Family Planning Office (DP3AP2KB). Their involvement underscored the collective effort required to address gender disparities and promote women’s empowerment at all levels of society.

The discussions and initiatives highlighted during the event reinforced the need for sustained efforts to achieve gender equality. While progress has been made, challenges remain, and partnerships like the one between Australia and Indonesia are crucial in driving meaningful change. The event concluded with a renewed commitment to empowering women and creating a more inclusive and equitable future.

As the world commemorates International Women’s Day, the collaboration between Australia and Indonesia serves as a powerful example of how international partnerships can drive progress toward gender equality. By investing in education, skill development, and community empowerment, both nations are paving the way for a brighter, more equitable future for women and girls.( Uki Ruknuddin)