RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Every April 21, the Indonesian people commemorate Kartini Day to honor the contributions of Raden Ajeng Kartini, a pioneer of the awakening of indigenous women. However, who exactly was Kartini and why is her name still remembered today?

She was born on April 21, 1879, in Jepara, Central Java. She came from a Javanese noble family and was the daughter of Raden Mas Adipati Ario Sosroningrat. Although she came from the priyayi class, Kartini faced various limitations as a woman, including restrictions in accessing education.

However, those limitations did not dampen her spirit. Kartini is known as an intelligent, critical figure with a great passion for learning. She read many Dutch books and newspapers, which broadened her perspective on the outside world and the importance of education and equality between men and women.

Kartini's ideas were expressed in letters she wrote to her friends in the Netherlands. The letters were then compiled into a work titled "Habis Gelap Terbitlah Terang". This book immortalizes Kartini's thoughts and makes her a symbol of the struggle for women's emancipation in Indonesia.

Kartini passed away at a young age, 25 years old, precisely on September 17, 1904, shortly after giving birth to her first child. Although her life was short, Kartini's influence was immense. She paved the way for Indonesian women to obtain education and take an active role in society.

As a form of tribute to her struggle, the Indonesian government has designated her birth date as Kartini Day since 1964. Today is a moment to commemorate her contributions while also reminding us of the importance of women's roles in nation-building.

Raden Ajeng Kartini is not just a historical figure, but also an eternal source of inspiration. Her struggle has become an inspiration for Indonesian women today to continue advancing, being independent, and achieving equality in various aspects of life.