The 5th World Conference on Creative Economy
No: SP/WCCE/EN13/2026
Jakarta, October 22, 2026 – Delegates from various corners of the world were hosted in the Diplomatic Dinner: A Gathering in The Sky as part of the series for The 5th World Conference on Creative Economy (WCCE) 2026. This momentum strengthens global creative diplomacy through a fusion of gastronomy, performing arts, and Nusantara cultural architectural values.
Photo: Bureau for Communication, Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency.
At least delegates from 68 countries and 7 international organizations attended the banquet held at Treasury 78, Jakarta, Thursday (10/22). Drawing inspiration from the Rumah Gadang of West Sumatra, the concept of this banquet represents unity, kinship, and collective identity. The value of togetherness closely tied to Minangkabau tradition also serves as a cultural context in the dining experience, aligning with the philosophy of makan bajamba that prioritizes togetherness through shared dishes.
“Gastronomy is more than just a food, it is a story, tradition, and national identity served through every dish. Through this Diplomatic Dinner, we can introduce the richness of Nusantara to the world while demonstrating how culture and creativity can serve as bridges to build international collaboration,” Minister of Creative Economy, Teuku Riefky Harsya, stated.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Creative Economy, Irene Umar, highlighted Padang cuisine as one of Indonesia's representations in the banquet. She emphasized the value of togetherness reflected in the dining experience as part of efforts to bring together guests from diverse backgrounds.
Photo: Bureau for Communication, Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency.
“Rumah Gadang possesses a philosophy that is close to us. Tonight, we also present Padang cuisine as a representation of Indonesia. When we sit together at the dinner table, background differences do not hinder us from connecting. This spirit of togetherness is what we wish to present through this banquet,” Irene said.
Delegates enjoyed a variety of Nusantara signature dishes, such as Food Diplomacy Canapé, papeda, teh talua, through to authentic rendang and ayam pop. The diversity of the menu showcases the potential of Indonesia's culinary subsector as a high-value creative economy commodity in international markets.
Mayor of Padang, Fadly Amran, conveyed that local culinary diplomacy can drive the promotion of regional tourism and creative economy to global levels. He invited guests to enjoy the authentic flavors of Padang while experiencing the hospitality of its people.
Photo: Bureau for Communication, Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency.
“Through this banquet, we wish to introduce the authentic flavors of Padang while showing that culinary arts form part of the culture, community, and creativity of the people. We hope this experience carries the story of Padang gastronomy from the community to the world stage,” Fadly Amran stated.
The cultural diplomacy experience was further enriched by performances of the Pasambahan Dance and Piring Dance as welcoming acts from the performing arts subsector. Through the synergy of architecture, gastronomy, and performing arts, the WCCE 2026 Diplomatic Dinner not only showcases cultural heritage, but also opens space for creative economy networking, trade, and investment for Indonesia on the global stage.
Kiagoos Irvan Faisal
Head of Bureau for Communication
Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency
For further information regarding WCCE, visit:
Website wcce.id and ekraf.go.id/news
Instagram @wcceid
Event deck ekr.af/wccegeneraldeck
Media kit ekr.af/mediakitwcce2026
Youtube Official WCCE Channel - Inclusively Creative
World Conference on Creative Economy (WCCE)
