 |
| West Kalimantan Welcomes Bundo Kanduang Minangkabau as Local Heroines to Boost Culture and Community Growth. |
West Kalimantan just had a major moment on Sunday (July 13, 2025)! Governor Drs. H. Ria Norsan, M.M., M.H., along with his wife Hj. Erlina, who also leads the provincial PKK (Family Welfare Movement), showed up in full support for the official inauguration of Bundo Kanduang Minangkabau Association from 9 regencies/cities across the province. The big event went down at Grand Mahkota Hotel, Pontianak, and it wasn’t just your average formal gathering — it was a celebration of strong women stepping up to lead, inspire, and uplift their communities.
“Congrats, Bundo Kanduang! Let’s Rock This Together!”
Governor Norsan didn’t hold back on the love and support. He congratulated all the newly inducted members and encouraged them to use their platform to bring real impact to West Kalimantan — from preserving culture to supporting local growth.
"I truly hope Bundo Kanduang can be more than a cultural symbol. Let it be a source of inspiration, action, and togetherness. Keep the legacy strong — not just here in West Kalimantan, but across Indonesia."
So… What’s Bundo Kanduang All About?
If you're not familiar, Bundo Kanduang is a respected title in Minangkabau tradition. It represents wisdom, maternal strength, and guardians of cultural values. In short: it's all about women leading the way — in the home, the community, and the world.
And according to Governor Norsan, the values behind this tradition fit perfectly with the province's bigger vision: a just, democratic, religious, prosperous, and eco-conscious West Kalimantan. He even broke it down for us:
-
Religious & Moral Backbone: Moms and Bundo Kanduang are role models at home, raising kids with strong character and spiritual values.
-
Family Economy Boosters: Women can help grow the local economy by promoting and running family-based businesses and UMKM (small and micro businesses).
-
Eco Warriors at Home: From sorting waste to protecting rivers and forests — women play a big role in environmental awareness starting from their own household.
Not Just a Club, But a Movement
Norsan’s vision for Bundo Kanduang goes beyond cultural celebration — he sees them as a real force for community change.
“Don’t let this group stop at gatherings or ceremonies. Let it be a space for ideas, sharing, innovation, and empowerment. I’m open for any feedback — and yes, that includes constructive criticism. Let’s grow together!”
National Leadership Throws in Big Support
Puti Reno Raudha Thaib, head of the National Bundo Kanduang Association, flew in to attend and left super impressed.
“Even though this is still a young group, you’ve already made real contributions — especially in social programs. That’s amazing!”
She also gave a shoutout to the local government for being supportive, and emphasized how this organization thrives not with fancy funding, but through togetherness and community spirit.
“Even with zero budget, we can still move forward if we have unity. Hopefully, the government continues to have our back so we can grow bigger and reach more people.”
9 Regions, One Strong Sisterhood
The new Bundo Kanduang leaders now represent nine areas in West Kalimantan:
-
Pontianak City
-
Kubu Raya
-
Ketapang
-
Singkawang City
-
Sambas
-
Mempawah
-
Sekadau
-
Sanggau
-
Sintang
Puti Reno even made a heartfelt request for Governor Norsan and his wife to be official patrons of the organization. She wants their leadership and guidance to keep Bundo Kanduang united, strong, and impactful in West Kalimantan.
This isn’t just another community group — Bundo Kanduang Minangkabau is here to do the work. From culture to economy, environment to education, these women are stepping up to make a real difference.
With strong government support, tons of passion, and deep-rooted cultural pride, there’s no doubt that Bundo Kanduang will continue to shine as the voice and heart of the community.