Bali Polling Station Makes History with All-Gen Z, Female Voting Team
During Wednesday’s Regional Head Elections, Bali Acting Governor Sang Made Mahendra Jaya took notice of a unique polling station with an inspiring story. TPS 08 Banjar Kertasari in Denpasar became a beacon of youth empowerment with its groundbreaking team composed entirely of Generation Z women.
“This is a different TPS. This is the first and only TPS with all Generation Z and women as the team, the security is also a policewoman,” Jaya remarked as he observed the station.
A Cleaner, Greener Approach to Democracy
Not only did the TPS 08 team make history with their demographics, they also showcased a commitment to sustainability. Free eco enzymes were provided to voters who exercised their right to vote, demonstrating an awareness of environmental concerns.
“I praise it because those who come (to vote) get the eco enzymes, which indicates concern for the environment. Like this, I believe that young people are already aware of democracy,” Jaya said, appreciating the thoughtfulness of the initiative.
Empowering Balinese Women in Politics
Ketut Udi Prayudi, the secretary of TPS 08 Banjar Kertasari, spoke passionately about the significance of the all-female, Gen Z team. He described it as a form of initiation, aimed at giving young Balinese women a platform in the political process.
“We initiated this so that young Balinese women can appear in our democratic and political processes,” Prayudi declared.
The team consisted of seven voting organizing group (KPPS) members, four witnesses, one supervisor, two public order officers, and two police personnel. All were between the ages of 17 and 23, demonstrating a dedication to nurturing young leadership.
“Hopefully, these young women, in the next 5–20 years, can become our leaders,” Prayudi expressed, highlighting his hope for their future involvement in shaping Balinese society.
Preparing for the Big Day
To ensure the team’s preparedness, they underwent comprehensive briefings and simulations, covering all aspects of their crucial roles on election day.
“Most of them were only 17 years old, and we held a briefing for them about what the voting day is,” Prayudi added, emphasizing the substantial effort put into preparing these young women for their responsibilities.
Does Acting Governor Jaya believe TPS 08 will encourage greater youth participation in future elections?
## A New Generation at the Polls: Interview with Bali Acting Governor
**Interviewer:** Acting Governor Jaya, you recently visited TPS 08 Banjar Kertasari in Denpasar, a polling station that’s making headlines. Can you tell us why?
**Governor Jaya:** Absolutely. TPS 08 is truly inspiring. It’s the first and only polling station in Bali, perhaps even Indonesia, staffed entirely by Generation Z women. Everything from the election officials to the security detail is handled by these young women. [[1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2024_Indonesian_general_election)]
**Interviewer:** That’s remarkable! What was your impression when you visited the station?
**Governor Jaya:** I was incredibly impressed. Their enthusiasm and commitment to the democratic process was truly infectious. This is a clear demonstration that our youth are engaged and ready to take on important roles in society. It’s also a testament to the progress we’re making in promoting gender equality in our political system.
**Interviewer:** Do you think this initiative will encourage greater youth participation in future elections?
**Governor Jaya:** I certainly hope so. Seeing their peers actively involved in the electoral process may inspire more young people to register to vote and get involved themselves. It’s a positive sign for the future of our democracy.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your insights, Acting Governor Jaya.