Singkawang, February 11, 2025 – Deputy Minister of Creative Economy/Deputy Head of the Creative Economy Agency, Irene Umar, attended a discussion with creative economy stakeholders in Singkawang. This event underscores the government's commitment to exploring potential and seeking solutions so that creativity can spark innovations and develop existing ones.
Dok. Biro Komunikasi Kemenekraf/Bekraf - Wamenekraf Irene Umar dorong inovasi dan akselerasi ekonomi kreatif Singkawang dalam diskusi Singkawang Creative City.
During the Singkawang Creative City Discussion held at San Kheu Jong (SKJ) Kopitiam, Singkawang, on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, Irene Umar emphasized that the city holds significant potential in the creative economy, which can contribute substantially through sustainable innovation.
"When we gather and discuss like this, we must identify potentials, challenges, and seek solutions together. We must also look at how the creative economy can create added value and expand employment opportunities so that the creative programs implemented are precisely targeted. Together, we can realize Singkawang as a city that supports creative economy activists to continue producing their work," Irene stated.
The Head of the Creative Economy Division of the West Kalimantan Youth, Sports, and Tourism Office, Yudi Triasnanto, appreciated the discussion. He assessed that this forum provides a space for creative economy stakeholders to exchange ideas and find solutions to the challenges they face.
Dok. Biro Komunikasi Kemenekraf/Bekraf
"We are very pleased by the presence of Madam Deputy Minister in Singkawang to meet directly with the creative economy fighters. In this discussion, we will cover the current conditions, constraints faced, and potential areas for development. We have been regularly conducting annual photographer certifications and continuously promoting Singkawang's creative economy potential, including performing arts, crafts, culinary, fashion, and music," said Yudi.
Meanwhile, the Deputy for Cultural Creativity and Design, Yuke Sri Rahayu, revealed that the government will introduce acceleration programs aimed at creating jobs and enhancing the capacity of creative economy stakeholders. She mentioned several previously implemented programs, such as Emak-Emak Matic, Coding Mum, and Apresiasi Kreasi Indonesia (AKI).
"Singkawang has a strategic position close to Malaysia and Brunei, making the creative economy products from this city ready for export. Strengthening Singkawang's distinct local products requires attention to market segmentation and attractive packaging. Furthermore, the products must possess uniqueness to ensure continuous growth," Yuke explained.
On this occasion, Irene Umar also highlighted that the creative economy must be viewed as "the new engine of growth" so that the aspirations of creative economy stakeholders can be effectively absorbed. She added that the hexahelix concept—synergy among the government, academia, business actors, community, media, and investors—can help creative economy stakeholders overcome challenges.
Dok. Biro Komunikasi Kemenekraf/Bekraf
"As long as a creative work is connected to the internet, it has the potential to be enjoyed by many people. Examples include strip comic creators like Tahilalats and Si Juki, who have successfully collaborated with institutions and State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN). Through branding, they don't just become content creators; they also have an economic impact. Creativity is not solely about turnover but also the added value it generates. Therefore, Singkawang needs to define the direction of its creative economy development by optimizing digital marketing and branding," Irene elaborated.
One representative of the content creators, Tri Fakhri Ardi, conveyed his hope that the government could provide more platforms for creative economy activists in Singkawang.
Dok. Biro Komunikasi Kemenekraf/Bekraf
"To enable us to be more dedicated, we need a place to create so that the results of our creativity can be better appreciated. Spaces for exhibitions, sharing sessions, and creative activity centers are important. This will encourage creative economy activists in Singkawang to continue developing and gain the rightful recognition," stated Fakhri, who has been involved in the world of creative content since 2020.
The creative discussion was moderated by the Acting Director for Visual Arts and Performing Arts, Dadam Mahdar, and attended by 30 representatives of creative economy activists from 17 creative economy subsectors, including the committee of the Cap Go Meh Festival 2025.
Kiagoos Irvan Faisal
Acting Head of Bureau for Communication
Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency
