Indonesia's Women's Business Groups Boost UMKM in Central and West Java

The Iwapi network of Indonesia Women Entrepreneurs staged a three‑day showcase at Ciputra Mall in Semarang from 24–26 July 2026. The exhibition featured products from 30 district‑level member groups, ranging from crafts and fashion to culinary items. Competitions such as a lion‑dance, a hymn‑singing contest and a best‑stand award highlighted the event, with Nining Collection winning the top prize. Sekda of Central Java, Sumarno, opened the expo and urged continued unity, saying, "A strong, united organization like Iwapi will bring real progress for its members."

Meanwhile, the regional chapter of Perempuan Indonesia Raya (PIRA) met in Bandung on 24 July 2026 to discuss strengthening women‑run UMKM through cooperatives. Chair Prasetyawati emphasized that cooperatives can expand marketing and financing opportunities and foster new women entrepreneurs, noting, "Cooperatives not only manage members' finances but also become a space for developing women's businesses across sectors." The meeting highlighted alignment with the Gerindra Party’s people‑centered economic principles.