Jakarta, 8 November 2025 — Deputy Minister of Creative Economy/Deputy Head of the Creative Economy Agency, Irene Umar, affirmed that sustainable creative economy products are emerging as strategic business opportunities increasingly sought after by consumers. Speaking at the Langkah Membumi event, the Deputy Minister emphasized that Indonesia’s creative economy has evolved beyond sustainability toward a restorative economy that restores ecological balance.
Wakil Menteri Ekonomi Kreatif, Irene Umar, menjadi narasumber dalam acara “Collabor Action for the Earth” yang diselenggarakan oleh Blibli. Acara tersebut berangsung di Taman Kota Peruri, Blok M, Jakarta, Sabtu, 8 November 2025.
“Many assume sustainability is merely a lifestyle choice or an added expense, when in fact it is a long-term investment for both businesses and the planet. Today, major brands are shifting toward sustainable products — and interestingly, those are precisely the products consumers seek most. That is why I always encourage creative economy players to view sustainability not as a burden, but as an opportunity,” said the Deputy Minister at Blibli’s event CollaborAction for the Earth at Taman Kota Peruri, Jakarta, on Saturday, 8 November 2025.
The Deputy Minister further explained that the concept of a restorative economy strengthens natural and social balance through decentralized economic systems at the local level. She underscored the importance of efficient, low-emission local ecosystems that deliver direct impact to communities.
“We have moved up a level — from sustainability to a restorative economy. For example, in NTT we collaborated with local bamboo craftswomen to plant bamboo and indigenous food crops that help restore soil fertility in dry areas. When ecosystems are decentralized, production becomes closer to its source, emissions decrease, and the economic benefits become much greater,” she stated.
Communication Bureau of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
As part of its commitment to environmental sustainability, the Ministry also continues to implement various green initiatives involving communities and creative industry players. One such initiative took place during the Independence Day commemorations on 17 August, where the Ministry worked with several NGOs to conduct a cleanup from the Monas area to Lippo Mall Nusantara, while also educating the public on waste sorting through creative approaches.
“For the first time, we went down together with NGOs — not only cleaning public areas, but also demonstrating creative examples of production and waste separation using local icons. We want to show that even waste management can generate economic value. Our work is not ceremonial; it is end-to-end, from action to real impact,” added the Deputy Minister.
Communication Bureau of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
Langkah Membumi is an annual sustainable lifestyle event initiated by Blibli, now in its fourth year. Each year, it brings together public figures, changemakers, and young advocates such as Sandiaga Uno, Cinta Laura, Masyita Crystallin, Luna Maya, Sal Priadi, and Ratna Kartadjoemena. This year’s edition highlights two key issues: reducing air pollution and minimizing waste — inviting the public to take action through daily habits that protect people and the planet. Deputy Minister Irene joined as a panelist in the Climate Action 101: Turning Awareness into Action discussion.
At the same event, Deputy Minister of Trade Dyah Roro Esti emphasized that cross-sector collaboration is essential to achieving sustainable trade that actively responds to climate change. She highlighted the importance of alignment between government, businesses, and society to ensure that trade activities contribute meaningfully to environmental sustainability.
“Synergy is the key. We must have a shared understanding that this is not just about trade — it is our responsibility to the planet. This is not a problem for tomorrow; it is a problem for today. That is why we need to move quickly and seek joint solutions for a better future,” said Roro Esti.
Communication Bureau of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
Meanwhile, Miss Universe Indonesia 2024, Clara Shafira Krebs, highlighted the role of local consumption in reducing carbon footprints. She emphasized that buying local products shortens distribution chains while strengthening regional economies.
Communication Bureau of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
“By supporting local products, we not only reduce transportation emissions but also increase demand for Indonesian-made goods. In fashion, I personally focus on timeless pieces that do not follow fast-changing trends, so textile waste can be reduced and production becomes more responsible,” Clara stated.
Kiagoos Irvan Faisal
Acting Head of Communications Bureau
Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency
