Jakarta, August 27, 2026 – The Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency (Ekraf) continues to support post-disaster creative economy recovery in West Sumatra, particularly in Payakumbuh City. One of the initiatives is the Kriyasi Weaving and Embroidery Product Acceleration Program for Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (Rehab-Rekons).
Deputy Minister of Creative Economy/Deputy Head of the Creative Economy Agency (Ekraf), Irene Umar (right), embroiders during the Kriyasi Weaving and Embroidery Product Acceleration Program as part of the Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (Rehab-Rekons) activities under the Ekraf Peduli “Pulih Bersama, Bangkit Berdaya” program at Mangkuto Hotel, Payakumbuh, West Sumatra, Thursday (27/8/2026).
The program is a strategic step to restore the productivity and competitiveness of local creative craft businesses.
“This activity is part of the Ekraf Peduli agenda, reflecting the Ministry of Creative Economy’s commitment to supporting creative economy players as they recover, strengthen their businesses, and rebuild through the spirit of ‘Pulih Bersama, Bangkit Berdaya.’ Sustainable assistance will help ensure that regional craft ecosystems become more resilient in facing challenges,” said Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar on Thursday (27/8).
The Deputy Minister said weaving and embroidery are not only cultural heritage but also have strong potential to support the local economy in Payakumbuh. As part of efforts to restore the creative economy in West Sumatra, embroidery and woven products need to be continuously developed to create greater added value and become more competitive in both national and international markets.
Strengthening local potential is in line with the positive growth of Indonesia’s creative economy. Based on Statistics Indonesia (BPS) data processed by the Ministry of Creative Economy, the crafts subsector continues to demonstrate positive performance. Its export value increased from US$3.47 billion in January–April 2025 to US$3.82 billion during the same period in 2026. In 2025, the crafts subsector contributed 10.7 percent to the creative economy, with a growth rate of 2.36 percent.
Photo: Bureau for Communication, Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency.
“Remember one thing: the story behind a product matters so that buyers understand the reason and meaning behind what they are purchasing. Without a story, people will only judge an item based on its appearance and price. Handmade products, however, carry historical value and prayers that can never be replaced by machines. When buyers understand the story behind them, I believe these local products will not only have greater value but also be able to reach wider markets,” said the Deputy Minister.
The Ministry of Creative Economy’s Kriyasi Weaving Program is carried out in collaboration with the Payakumbuh City Government to accelerate recovery and strengthen the capacity of craft businesses affected by the disaster. The assistance includes design development, production skills enhancement, and product development tailored to market needs.
The workshop was attended by 50 participants, consisting of 25 weaving artisans and 25 embroidery artisans. Participants received presentations and hands-on training from Rumpun Consulting for embroidery products and the Center for Craft and Batik for woven products.
Photo: Bureau for Communication, Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency.
Through the training, artisans are expected to revitalize craft materials and knowledge by developing products that are relevant to market needs, increasing awareness of the importance of design thinking, and improving the quality and added value of their works. Ultimately, these efforts are expected to contribute to stronger economic growth.
“This activity has been a very valuable experience for craft businesses. We gained not only knowledge and assistance, but also motivation to continue innovating and developing woven products with better quality and competitiveness. Hopefully, through this activity, local craft products can continue to advance and have greater opportunities to reach wider markets,” said Maipanis, a participant in the Kriyasi Weaving and Embroidery Product Acceleration Program.
During the activity, Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar was accompanied by Special Staff for Creative Economy Ecosystem Strengthening and Data, Jago Anggara.
Kiagoos Irvan Faisal
Head of Bureau for Communication
Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency
