CLN and KOWANI Unite to Empower SMEs and Celebrate National Kebaya Day 2024

Cahaya Ladara Nusantara (CLN), in partnership with the Indonesian Women’s Congress (KOWANI), has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to empowering small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and preserving Indonesia’s cultural heritage. These efforts culminated in two impactful events held at Istora Senayan, Jakarta: the 2024 UMKM Expo on July 23-24 and the National Kebaya Day Celebration on July 24. Together, these initiatives served as a powerful testament to the synergy between economic development and cultural preservation.

The 2024 UMKM Expo brought together hundreds of SMEs from across Indonesia, showcasing a vibrant array of handmade crafts, innovative products, and culinary delights that reflect the nation’s rich cultural diversity. Designed as a platform to elevate local businesses, particularly those led by women, the expo provided invaluable opportunities for entrepreneurs to gain both national and international recognition.

CLN Chairwoman Nanny Hadi Tjahjanto emphasized the significance of the expo in empowering local entrepreneurs. She expressed CLN’s vision of not only fostering economic growth but also ensuring that women-led businesses thrive in a competitive global market. Supporting this vision, CLN Vice Chairwoman Anita Rusdi highlighted the organization’s dedication to providing targeted training, mentorship programs, and international networking opportunities to equip SMEs with the tools they need to succeed on a global stage.

The event was officially opened by Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto, who praised the initiative as a key driver of Indonesia’s economic resilience. Vice Minister of Manpower Afriansyah Noor also attended, offering words of encouragement to the participating entrepreneurs. Through its collaboration with KOWANI, CLN showcased its ability to build impactful partnerships that not only strengthen the SME sector but also empower women as agents of economic change.

On July 24, the spotlight shifted to the National Kebaya Day Celebration, marking the inaugural event since President Joko Widodo’s decree officially recognizing the kebaya as an intangible cultural heritage. The celebration, which featured over 9,000 participants, underscored the kebaya’s role as a symbol of Indonesia’s cultural identity and women’s empowerment.

Participants donned exquisitely designed kebayas, demonstrating the timeless elegance and cultural significance of this traditional attire. Among the attendees was First Lady Iriana Widodo, who graced the event in a stunning dark blue velvet kebaya, epitomizing sophistication and cultural pride. As part of the event, KOWANI honored Iriana with the prestigious title of “Ibu Bangsa”, acknowledging her contributions to promoting women’s empowerment and preserving Indonesian heritage.

KOWANI Chairwoman Giwo Rubianto Wiyogo described the event as a revival of the spirit of Indonesian women’s empowerment. She highlighted the kebaya as a representation of resilience, simplicity, and grace, urging the younger generation to embrace its cultural and historical significance.

CLN played a prominent role in the celebration, with its members wearing light green kebayas designed by renowned fashion designer Anne Avantie. Chairwoman Nanny Hadi Tjahjanto reiterated CLN’s commitment to preserving Indonesia’s cultural identity through the kebaya while using it as a symbol to inspire women to take leadership roles in society.

Adding to the grandeur of the event were captivating performances by renowned artists, including Sundari Soekotjo, Putri Ariani, and actress Widyawati. A female vocal group comprising Rieka Roslan, Yuni Shara, Iga Mawarni, Nina Tamam, and Andien Aisyah performed the song “Kebaya Indonesia”, which resonated with the theme of cultural pride and women’s empowerment.

Through these two interconnected events, CLN and KOWANI demonstrated that economic growth and cultural preservation are not separate endeavors but are deeply intertwined. The UMKM Expo highlighted the resilience and creativity of Indonesia’s SMEs, providing a platform for their talents to shine on a global stage. At the same time, the celebration of National Kebaya Day reinforced the importance of honoring traditions as a source of national pride and identity.

By empowering women entrepreneurs and celebrating cultural heritage, CLN and KOWANI continue to pave the way for a brighter and more inclusive future. These events serve as a powerful reminder of Indonesia’s potential to blend tradition and innovation, ensuring that its cultural and economic legacy remains vibrant for generations to come.