An Economic observer from Pasundan University, M. Ade Sulchi, stated that although a significant number of Indonesian women are active in entrepreneurship, they continue to face serious challenges. According to data from the Central Statistics Agency, women comprised 64 percent of business actors in Indonesia in 2023. However, most remain confined to the micro and informal sectors.
Ade addressed these issues during a talk show titled “The Existence of Women’s Leadership for Indonesia’s Sustainable Economy,” organized by the Master’s Program of the SBM ITB, held in Bandung on Tuesday (10/6).
He highlighted several major challenges faced by female entrepreneurs, including limited access to financing and training, the burden of dual responsibilities, and socio-cultural barriers that restrict their opportunities for growth and development.
In addition to Ade, the event featured NN Group Director Vina Cristyn Ferani, who also serves as Chairperson of the Belitung Regency DPRD, SBM ITB lecturer Hary Febriansyah, and other economic observers from Pasundan University.
“This event is a collaborative effort with UNPAS lecturers, aiming to build synergy between universities in Bandung, practitioners, and policymakers,” said Hary Febriansyah.
During the session, Vina shared her journey as a female entrepreneur. Her business career began after graduating with a degree in Accounting in 2000. Upon returning to Belitung, she helped run her parents’ market stall.
“This is where I truly learned about the community’s needs, understanding which products were consistently in demand, particularly packaged snacks,” Vina recalled.
With an initial capital of IDR 100 million, she started a retail business and managed sales independently. Over time, her enterprise expanded into the daily necessities sector.
In 2011, Vina established her retail brand, Babelmart, which now operates eight branches. She has since diversified into the FMCG and automotive sectors. In 2020, she was named Best Excise Entrepreneur.
“Local business actors are key drivers of economic recovery. When the economy rebounds, communities thrive,” she said.
Motivated to contribute further, Vina entered politics with a vision to make Belitung a competitive region through synergy between business and public policy. She was elected Chairperson of the DPRD for the 2024–2029 term.
In her role as a legislator, Vina also highlighted the challenges facing women in politics. She considered that regulations such as Law No. 17 of 2017, which requires a minimum of 30% female representation, are very important to encourage participation.
“Many believe that women are less compatible with the tough world of politics,” she noted.
To address the barriers faced by women in business, the speakers collectively stressed the need for robust government support. This includes access to financing programs like KUR and UMi, entrepreneurship training, and digital skills development initiatives specifically tailored for women entrepreneurs.