Malanginspirasi.com – In commemoration of Kartini Day, Sofia Ambarini, an influential figure, highlighted the crucial importance of character development and mental health within society.
During an interview at the Malang Creative Center (MCC) on April 21, 2025, Ambarini, the founder of the Mahargijono Schutzenberger Indonesia Foundation, emphasized the pressing need to prioritize mental well-being, especially among young people.
Ambarini’s foundation aims to cultivate a generation not only characterized by intelligence but also by strong moral principles.
By providing community-based services, the foundation hopes to mitigate the rising prevalence of corruption, crime, and other detrimental societal issues in the future.
The impetus behind the foundation’s establishment stems from Ambarini’s observation that mental health is often overlooked and underestimated.
She contends that mental well-being plays a pivotal role in shaping an individual’s character and fostering positive personal growth.
“Nowadays, I see a serious problem among children; their mental resilience seems weak. For the future generation, the generation my children will live in, I want them to grow up in a conducive environment,” she asserted.
She further stressed the significant impact of character on an individual’s future and the formation of their personality.
“Mental health is essential for shaping a person’s character. A person comprises IQ and SQ, yet only IQ is academically taught in schools. Where do the others develop? Through mental health,” she elaborated.
Challenges and Opportunities
Ambarini also spoke to the specific challenges and opportunities facing women. She advocated for the continuous development of one’s potential, regardless of their role as a daughter, wife, or any other circumstance.
These abilities, she believes, should be utilized to benefit society, offering solutions and extending assistance in times of need.
As a woman herself, Sofia shared her thoughts on the significance of Kartini Day.
“In my view, this day reminds women to appreciate themselves. Even though women may marry and have children, they should continue developing their potential. As mothers and wives, we must keep growing. Remember, Kartini fought for our right to achieve equality,” she concluded.
Through her advocacy, Sofia Ambarini champions the interconnection between mental health, character building, and women’s empowerment, underscoring their collective impact on forging a better society.
