Malang, (malangkota.go.id) – The meaning of Kartini Day is not just a moment of celebration, because it also has an important meaning for Indonesian women. This was conveyed by the Head of the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) of Malang City, Erny Fatma Setyoharini, SE., MM when met on the sidelines of her activities at the BPS Office of Malang City, (20/4/2022).
According to her, the Kartini Day moment confirms that women have the right to equality in various fields. Including becoming a leader, so that a woman leading an agency is now no longer a dream.
"Every woman has the same opportunity to become the spearhead of the country. Therefore, all women must actively take the initiative. Must be willing to move and do something for the good. So do not wait for a new example to move, but start one step that provides enlightenment. That way, women will become examples and models," said Erny.
The woman who has a hobby of gardening, sees that women's participation in decision-making has received significant attention in several regions in Indonesia, including in Malang City. This is evidenced by the increasing involvement of women in the decision-making process and development planning process, such as in the Thematic Women's Development Planning Deliberation (Musrenbang) held by the Malang City Government (Pemkot).
"Even in Malang City, I see many female heads of departments occupying strategic agencies. Agencies that are not just about being heads of departments, but must play a big role," said Erny.
Where they successfully created various innovations and also showed their achievements, that women can be the spearhead in making changes, women are not inferior. So, he said, those female heads of service make Malang City proud.
"In BPS itself, out of 38 BPS heads of districts/cities, there are 10 BPS heads who are women who are something to be proud of and have many innovations," he explained.
For the woman who has a favorite quote, "leadership is an action, not a position" from Donald McGannon, the most memorable experience throughout her leadership career was when she was promoted to become the first Head of BPS, namely in early 2017. At that time she was given the trust to become the Head of BPS Blitar City. With a team of only 12 people, she began to build a strong work team even though the workload faced was extraordinary. With hard work and a high sense of responsibility, finally various achievements and accomplishments were achieved.
"At that time I had to be quite far from my family. Every day I went back and forth from Malang to Blitar and vice versa for almost four years. I left at dawn and arrived home at night," he continued, remembering his struggle.
However, it was carried out without complaint. According to him, the most memorable thing was, before leaving Blitar City to be appointed as Head of BPS Malang City, the BPS Blitar City building had been built and stood magnificently. Collaboration with the Blitar City Government and other stakeholders there had been very well established, and many achievements had been made.
Various innovations and collaborations continue to be strengthened in carrying out her responsibilities as Head of BPS Malang City. Carrying out responsibilities well is one of the important points for her in carrying out her duties. Not only in the office, but also as a mother of four children. As a woman and a housewife, family is one of the main considerations during the process of pursuing her career in achieving a higher level.
"Alhamdulillah, I grew up with both parents who work as civil servants. So since I was little I was used to being left at home with a household assistant. I also gave an understanding to the children at home, that a mother works also for the children," she said.
So a mother's devotion cannot be seen from how long she is at home, but more from the quality. Although sometimes there is a feeling of guilt, because she has to be somewhere else for a task that cannot be left when they need it. "But I continue to try to carry out my responsibilities as a leader in the office and at the same time a mother at home," said the woman who likes gray and black.
At the end of the interview session, Erny gave a message to all women in Indonesia, especially the residents of Malang City, that women must be confident in their strength, and must strive to make real changes that are not just lip service.
"With mutual support and diligent efforts, women will be able to prove that they are not second-class humans. But they can also help change the world, of course without forgetting their nature as women. Women leaders must be productive and inspiring," she concluded. (eka/ram)
