Jakarta - The General Chairperson of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin), Anindya Novyan Bakrie, emphasized the importance of collaboration between the business sector and the government in fostering national economic independence. He noted that entrepreneurs not only play a role in driving the economy, but also in creating jobs and enhancing family welfare.

Anindya, familiarly known as Anin, delivered these remarks during his opening speech at the 10th National Congress (Munas X) of the Indonesian Women Entrepreneurs Association (IWAPI). The congress carried the theme "Strengthening the Foundation of Women's Economic Digital Transformation Through Cross-Sector Synergy Towards Golden Indonesia," with the sub-theme "Promoting Women's Economic Independence Through Digital Innovation, Food Security, and Sustainable Energy Resilience," held at the Borobudur Hotel, Central Jakarta, on Monday (11/2/2026).

“Economic sovereignty is an absolute necessity. Having been independent for a long time, it is unacceptable for us not to be self-reliant or stand on our own two feet,” Anin stated.

Anin explained that three main pillars require the attention of the business world: challenges, competitiveness, and compassion. These three aspects are deemed essential in navigating global economic dynamics while reinforcing the role of national entrepreneurs, including women.

According to Anin, the first aspect encompasses the various challenges currently faced by the business sector. The second aspect is competitiveness. Anin noted that while Indonesia possesses strong economic resilience, it must further enhance its competitiveness to successfully escape the middle-income trap.

In this regard, women are considered to have a strategic role in boosting economic competitiveness through their contributions to the business world. Anin also highlighted women’s inherent traits of persistence in generating income, coupled with greater prudence in managing family finances and expenditures.

The third aspect is compassion. According to Anin, the spirit of care and mutual cooperation (gotong royong) must be continually reinforced so that all business actors can grow and progress together.

Furthermore, Anin highlighted the potential of the "care economy," which he believes can serve as a source of economic growth while opening up employment opportunities for women.

Anin pointed out that 76.2 percent of unpaid care work globally is performed by women. Meanwhile, the female labor force participation rate still requires improvement. Investment in childcare, for instance, has the potential to create up to 10.4 million new jobs in Indonesia through 2025.

“The care economy is one sector where women possess unique added value and superior capabilities,” Anin said.

Anin also reported that the Indonesian economy is demonstrating solid performance, growing by 5.04 percent in the third quarter of 2026. Additionally, investments—both foreign direct investment (FDI) and domestic direct investment (DDI)—have registered positive growth.

According to Anin, the growth of domestic investment reflects the strong competitiveness and capability of local entrepreneurs to thrive alongside foreign investors. These investments have also absorbed approximately 1.4 million workers.

Consequently, Anin expressed appreciation for the contributions of women entrepreneurs affiliated with IWAPI. He emphasized that the success of an entrepreneur is measured not only by business achievements, but also by their ability to create jobs and deliver broader economic benefits to society.

“Be proud, entrepreneurs of IWAPI. You are not only succeeding as business owners, but you are also creating employment, which essentially brings livelihood to many more people,” Anin remarked.

Meanwhile, the General Chairperson of the Central Executive Board (DPP) of IWAPI, Nita Yudi, stated that women hold a vital role in supporting national development and the economy. She noted that women are characterized by discipline, diligence, and high responsibility, including in fulfilling financial obligations.

“The role of women is greatly needed by the state. Women tend to be more loyal, disciplined, and are the best loan repayers in financial institutions,” Nita Yudi said.

She also believes that the increasing involvement of women in the business world can make a positive contribution to economic governance and community life. Nita further praised various government programs under the leadership of President Prabowo Subianto, which she noted have effectively addressed community needs.

“An example is the nutritious free meal (MBG) program; although it has been slightly tarnished, that is the fault of certain individuals, not the government,” said Nita Yudi.

Also in attendance at the event were Kadin Indonesia Deputy Chairperson (WKU) for Organization, Communication, and Regional Empowerment Coordinator Erwin Aksa, Kadin Indonesia Deputy Chairperson for Legal Affairs, Human Rights, and Infrastructure M. Azis Syamsuddin, and Kadin Indonesia Deputy Chairperson for Membership Widiyanto Saputro.