"We are dedicated to supporting and creating more opportunities for Indonesian women so they can play a significant role in building a sustainable and inclusive tourism ecosystem," she noted in the ministry's official statement here on Thursday.
During her visit with Yogyakarta Governor Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X on the exhibition's closing day in Yogyakarta on Wednesday (January 22), Wardhana acknowledged the pivotal roles that empresses of the Yogyakarta Palace have had in shaping civilization.
Babad (Javanese historical text) and manuscripts depict women as influential figures, serving in various capacities as soldiers, treasurers, fashion designers, and diplomats.
Hence, Wardhana asserted that empowering women is one of the main pillars of fostering inclusivity in tourism.
The "Parama Iswari: Mahasakti Keraton Yogyakarta" exhibition ran from October 6, 2024, to January 26, 2025, highlighting the contributions of women, especially the empresses of the Yogyakarta Palace, from Sultan Hamengku Bawana I to X.
Minister Wardhana also stated that the exhibition aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's vision of tourism as a primary source of foreign exchange that can be promoted through leading destinations that showcase local wisdom, thereby fostering quality and sustainable tourism.
Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X explained that the exhibition is not merely a cultural event but emphasizes that gender equality awareness is not merely a modern concept.
He affirmed that respecting women contributes to establishing a more just, humane, and sustainable civilization.
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Translator: Hreeloita S, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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