Women in Maritime Indonesia (WIMA INA) is setting a new course for the nation’s maritime future. With a bold vision rooted in inclusivity, resilience, and innovation, WIMA INA is steering change in an industry long dominated by men.
That vision came to life during a recent Focus Group Discussion (FGD) titled “An Ocean of Opportunities for Women: Women’s Participation in a Male-Dominated Maritime Industry.”
Held as part of the 2025 Indonesia Maritime Week, the forum was a joint initiative by WIMA INA, Pertiwi Subholding Integrated Marine Logistics (SH IML), and Mutiara Pelindo.
The event brought together over a hundred voices, from seasoned industry professionals and academic leaders to young aspiring mariners, all united by one shared goal: charting a more inclusive future for women at sea.
“This isn’t just a discussion,” declared Chandra Motik Yusuf, General Chairperson of WIMA INA.
“It’s a movement. Together with our partners, we’re amplifying women’s voices and shaping a maritime future that embraces everyone,” she noted.
The discussion delved into the real challenges women face in the industry: systemic barriers, deeply ingrained cultural norms, and a lack of supportive policies. But it also highlighted opportunities, in leadership, education, and innovation, waiting to be seized.
The event featured a powerful lineup of voices. There were stories of women who defied expectations to command vessels, of young professionals breaking stereotypes, and of policy experts urging for regulatory change. Every conversation echoed the same message: the ocean belongs to everyone.
From the government’s side, support was strong. Representing the Directorate General of Sea Transportation, Lollan Panjaitan stressed the ministry’s full commitment to fostering an inclusive maritime sector.
Photo: Lollan Panjaitan
“This forum is a catalyst,” he said. “We must turn the ocean into a space of equal opportunity, not just for men, but for women and the next generation of maritime leaders.”
And there are signs of progress. In 2024, Indonesia reported that 2.8% of its sailors were women, a figure that, while modest, surpasses the global average of less than 2%. Still, structural barriers and cultural perceptions continue to limit women’s full participation.
Photo: Arsenio Dominguez
Across the world, the challenge is just as pressing. In a heartfelt address, International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez revealed that global female participation in the maritime sector has actually declined, from 26% in 2021 to 19% in 2024. It’s a trend he called unacceptable.
“Awareness isn’t enough,” Dominguez said. “We need real action — more women in leadership, more opportunities, and more policies based on data and the lived experiences of women in this field.”
His message was clear and unwavering: speak up, step forward, and don’t wait for permission. “The maritime world is full of potential,” he said. “But we need everyone on deck, especially women and youth, to truly harness that potential.”
Photo: In a historic moment, WIMA Indonesia honored Captain Entin Kartini with the ‘First Indonesian Woman as Captain’ award plaque. The prestigious recognition was personally presented by the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization, Mr. Arsenio Dominguez.”
As the forum concluded, there was a palpable sense of momentum. What began as a conversation had evolved into a call to action — a signal that Indonesia is ready to turn the tide, not just for women, but for the future of its entire maritime industry.
With leaders like Chandra Motik Yusuf at the helm and a new generation rising to the challenge, the message is clear: the ocean may be vast, but there’s room for everyone, and WIMA INA is making sure that no one is left behind.