As part of the 2025 International Women’s Day celebrations, Australia’s Chargé d’Affaires to Indonesia, Gita Kamath, visited the PEKKA Local Market in Mampang Prapatan, South Jakarta. This visit reaffirmed the shared commitment under the Australia-Indonesia Partnership Towards an Inclusive Society (INKLUSI) to strengthen the economic empowerment of women heads of households through community-based programs supported by the Australian and Indonesian governments.
As a key initiative of the INKLUSI Program, empowering women heads of households is central to promoting economic independence and fostering more inclusive community development. The program not only provides women with access to develop their skills and businesses but also helps create an enabling environment for sustainable women’s economic participation in Indonesia.
The Foundation for the Empowerment of Women Heads of Households (PEKKA), an INKLUSI partner, has long been committed to advancing the economic empowerment of women heads of households. One of its flagship initiatives, the PEKKA Local Market, serves as a platform for women entrepreneurs—particularly members of PEKKA’s Joint Business Groups (KUB)—to expand their business networks, enhance their skills, and improve their economic wellbeing.
With support from local government, the PEKKA Local Market not only provides business space but also essential facilities such as tents, electricity, entertainment, security, and sanitation. A wide variety of products are available, ranging from processed foods, clothing, and daily necessities to handicrafts. More than just a marketplace, it fosters solidarity among women entrepreneurs, enabling them to support one another and build a more inclusive and sustainable business ecosystem.
During her visit, Gita Kamath engaged directly with PEKKA women entrepreneurs, observed the production of various flagship products, and listened to their inspiring stories. One of them, Rahmawati, a PEKKA member from South Jakarta, shared her journey as an entrepreneur.
Since joining PEKKA, I have gained more confidence in growing my business. Moving forward, I hope for more training and support to help us navigate business legalities more easily, said Rahmawati.
A discussion involving local government representatives, PEKKA groups, and Gita Kamath also explored the challenges faced by women-led micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) at the local level, as well as opportunities to strengthen support from various stakeholders, including government and development partners.
Representing the Australian Government and the Australian Embassy, Gita Kamath expressed appreciation and reaffirmed support for women entrepreneurs.
The Australian Government remains committed to strengthening women’s economic empowerment, as women play a crucial role in building more inclusive communities, said Gita Kamath.
A similar commitment was echoed by the South Jakarta local government, represented by Ali Murtadho, Acting Deputy Mayor of South Jakarta.
“We must provide greater opportunities for women heads of households to contribute to development,” said Ali Murtadho.
PEKKA hopes that this visit will further strengthen collaboration among various stakeholders to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for women in Indonesia. With support from the INKLUSI Program, PEKKA will continue working to expand women’s access to sustainable and empowering economic opportunities.
Watch the highlights here! (Video in Bahasa Indonesia)
