Every 21 April, Indonesians commemorate Hari Kartini—a national day that honors Raden Ajeng Kartini, a 19th-century Javanese noblewoman and education reformer whose legacy continues to inspire movements for gender equality. Kartini’s writings on the emancipation of women laid the foundation for women’s rights in Indonesia, making the date not just ceremonial but deeply symbolic for many, especially women.
In Bali, the tribute took a modern turn this year. At Lumintang Skatepark in Denpasar, dozens of girls and women in colorful kebaya—the traditional blouse-dress combination symbolizing Indonesian femininity—grinded rails, carved corners, and practiced ollies in celebration of Kartini’s legacy.
Skating with purpose, not just style
The event was organized by GalsSkate Bali, a community founded by Rodi, a German national who has lived in Bali for two decades. She said the celebration wasn’t just for flair, but meant to shine a light on how far women have come—and how far there is still to go, especially in male-dominated spaces like skateboarding.
“If it weren’t for Kartini, these girls wouldn’t be here,” Rodi said. “We want parents to see this hobby not just as play, but as a way to build mental resilience—learning to fall and get back up again, together, and off their screens.”
Wearing kebaya and kamen (traditional Balinese sarong) while skating wasn’t without its challenges. But the skaters took it in stride, adjusting their movements to work with the fabric rather than against it. Many found it fun—a blend of elegance and grit.
Pushing for visibility in a male-dominated sport
Despite the colorful celebration, Rodi noted that many girls still feel hesitant about skating simply because most skateparks are crowded with boys. The imbalance can make them feel out of place or self-conscious.
“That’s why we created this event,” Rodi explained, “so they can gather in a space that feels safe and supportive.”
The choice of Lumintang Skatepark was also intentional—it’s been recently revamped by local authorities, and Rodi sees it as a hopeful sign that public space for skating is becoming more inclusive and accessible.
Generation next: Girls with big dreams
Among the participants was 13-year-old Sarkara Laislana Abhipraya, who spoke proudly of skating in kebaya—even if it made landing tricks a bit trickier. “It was hard,” she said with a laugh, “but this is part of celebrating women’s freedom.”
For Sarkara, skateboarding isn’t just a hobby—it’s a passion and a goal. She trains regularly and enters competitions, aiming one day to become a professional skater. But like many girls her age, she’s noticed that tournaments often group everyone together, making it hard for female talent to stand out.
“People say skateboarding is tough, especially for girls, like it’s only for boys,” she said. “But girls have the talent too—some of us can skate just as well, or even better.”
Kartini’s spirit on wheels
Kartini Day isn’t just about looking back—it’s about what’s possible ahead. And for these skaters, that means pushing boundaries in more than one way. On ramps, in kebaya, and with confidence, they’re carving a place for themselves in a culture that is slowly, but surely, catching up.
As Rodi put it: “This is what Kartini stood for. Choice, courage, and a voice.”
