Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Encourages Young People to Express Themselves Through Kebaya at Pesta Folka Vol. 2

Jakarta, August 30, 2026 – Deputy Minister of Creative Economy/Deputy Head of the Creative Economy Agency (Ekraf), Irene Umar, attended Pesta Folka Vol. 2 “Generasi Kebaya” at Urban Forest, Cipete, South Jakarta, Sunday (30/8). The visit was an appreciation of the initiative, which brings together kebaya, traditional textiles (wastra), creativity, and younger generations in a space that is closer to everyday life.

Deputy Minister of Creative Economy/Deputy Head of the Creative Economy Agency (Ekraf), Irene Umar, visits a tenant at Pesta Folka Vol. 2 “Generasi Kebaya” at Urban Forest, Jakarta, Sunday (30/8/2026).

Pesta Folka is a Nusantara cultural festival initiated by PT Folkakomunal Kreasi Budaya. Held from August 29–30, 2026, the festival presents culture in a more casual and modern format, featuring a variety of creative products and works relevant to younger generations.

“Kebaya has a long history, but the way we celebrate it does not always have to remain the same. When young people are given the space to wear, style, and express kebaya in their own way, that is when culture continues to live and find its relevance,” said Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar during the visit.

This year, Pesta Folka presents kebaya as part of the expression and lifestyle of a new generation. During her visit, the Deputy Minister also tried several kebaya styles at the styling station, including pairing kebaya with contemporary fashion elements such as sneakers.

Photo: Bureau for Communication, Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency.

“We often feel that certain clothes do not suit who we are. In fact, we can find ways to style kebaya according to our individual character. When we have the confidence to wear something that reflects who we are, kebaya no longer feels distant or limited to certain occasions, but can become part of everyday life,” added Irene.

The various styling combinations demonstrate how cultural heritage can continue to evolve alongside changing tastes and forms of expression among new generations. This approach also provides creative economy players with opportunities to offer new interpretations of kebaya without losing the cultural character embedded in it.

The Ministry of Creative Economy views spaces such as Pesta Folka as part of an ecosystem that brings together culture, creativity, and the market. The development of kebaya through design, fashion, and creative collaboration can create opportunities for culture-based works to grow while reaching wider audiences.

During her visit, Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar was accompanied by Director of Architecture and Design, Megawati Panjaitan.

Kiagoos Irvan Faisal
Head of Bureau for Communication
Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency