Jepara's Kartini Museum Projected to Become a Center for Women's Studies

RRI.CO.ID, Jepara - The Kartini Museum in Jepara Regency, Central Java, is projected to become a center for women's studies, not only preserving history but also serving as a space for discussion, research, and strengthening women's capacities.

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR RI), Lestari Moerdijat, said this during a visit to the Kartini Museum with Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives (DPR RI) Saan Mustopa. The two were welcomed by Jepara Regent Witiarso Utomo and Deputy Regent M Ibnu Hajar.

"The Kartini Museum is not just a physical building, but a space for reflection on the values of R.A. Kartini's struggle, which remain highly relevant today," said Deputy Speaker of the MPR RI Lestari Moerdijat on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

She highlighted the importance of women's freedom and independence, as well as their ability to be at the forefront in fighting for humanitarian values. "Women's freedom, women's independence, and women's ability to be at the forefront. This includes fighting for values, not just the values of struggle, but most importantly, the values of humanity," she said.

She expressed hope that the Kartini Museum will eventually develop into a women's study center that actively hosts discussions, research, and empowerment programs. Thus, the museum will not only be a place to store historical artifacts, but also a center for the development of literacy and women's thought movements.

Meanwhile, Saan Mustopa appreciated the Jepara Regency Administration's move to convert the hall, which previously housed the regent's official residence, into the Kartini Museum.

"The regent is willing to no longer occupy it. This is a commitment to honoring our ancestors, who continue to be immortalized through the Kartini Museum," he said.

He emphasized that preserving our ancestors' heritage is a shared responsibility, especially since R.A. Kartini is known as a literacy hero and pioneer of women's emancipation in Indonesia. As a form of support for strengthening literacy, Saan also donated a Community Reading Park (TBM) car and expressed his support for the elimination of book taxes to increase public interest in reading.

Meanwhile, Jepara Regent Witiarso Utomo expressed hope that support from the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) and the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) will expedite the implementation of several development proposals submitted by the Jepara Regency Administration.

"We are honored by the visit of Mr. Saan and Mrs. Rerie, who are interested in the museum. We have put forward several proposals. We hope they can be realized for the people of Jepara," he said.

The visit is expected to be a concrete step in strengthening Jepara's position as a city of literacy and a center for developing the values of women's struggle inherited from R.A. Kartini. ***