Jakarta. From surfing in traditional dress on Bali’s waves to wearing kebaya uniforms on city buses, Indonesian women marked Kartini Day this week with a mix of cultural pride and modern expressions of empowerment.

The annual celebration, held every April 21, honors Raden Ajeng Kartini, a 19th-century Javanese noblewoman whose letters and advocacy helped lay the foundation for women’s emancipation in Indonesia.

More than a century after her death, Kartini’s vision continues to resonate, inspiring new generations to redefine equality in ways that reflect both tradition and change.

In Bali, six deaf women delivered one of the most striking tributes. Wearing kebaya, a traditional blouse-dress, they surfed the waves at Kuta Beach, challenging both stereotypes and expectations.

The surfers, part of the Corti Deaf Surfers team under the Corti Foundation, said the unusual attire did not hold them back. “We are very happy to take part in this,” said Melisa Maharani, one of the participants. “Wearing a kebaya while surfing is not a problem.”

Their performance drew crowds of beachgoers and photographers, turning the event into a symbol of inclusion. Organizers said the initiative, known as “Kartini Go Surf,” aims to create space for women with disabilities while promoting equality through sport and culture.

Across the archipelago, Kartini Day is often marked by women wearing kebaya, a garment that has become synonymous with the holiday. In the capital Jakarta, female attendants on the TransJakarta network donned traditional attire while serving passengers, blending everyday urban life with cultural heritage.

Male staff also joined the celebration, wearing Betawi traditional outfits, while some female commuters participated by dressing in kebaya during their journeys. Despite the festive atmosphere, services continued to run normally, showcasing how the commemoration integrates seamlessly into daily routines.

In Jepara, Kartini’s hometown, thousands of visitors flocked to the Kartini Museum, reflecting enduring public interest in her legacy. Many visitors, including students, wore traditional attire as a sign of respect.

Museum officials reported a surge in attendance from early morning, with visitors exploring exhibits that chronicle Kartini’s life and the broader history of women’s rights in Indonesia. For many, the visit serves as both an educational experience and a reminder of the ongoing relevance of her ideas.

“Indonesian women are strong,” said Shifa, a visitor from Tuban. “Kartini paved the way for equality between women and men.”

While the forms of celebration vary, from cultural performances to public service participation, the message remains consistent. Kartini Day is not only about honoring history, but also about reaffirming the role of women in shaping Indonesia’s future.