Jakarta, May 20, 2026 – Deputy Minister for Creative Economy/Deputy Head of the Creative Economy Agency, Irene Umar, stated that Pagelaran Sabang Merauke: Hanya Indonesia yang Punya 2026 strengthens the national performing arts ecosystem. The Deputy Minister also expressed appreciation for the artistic performance that highlights the richness of Indonesia’s cultural heritage.
Deputy Minister for Creative Economy, Irene Umar, attended the Press Conference Kick Off of Pagelaran Sabang Merauke – Hanya Indonesia Yang Punya “Hikayat Srikandi Nusantara” held at Mall Atrium, East Mall Grand Indonesia, Jakarta, on Wednesday (20/5/2026).
“I highly appreciate this extraordinary performance as a contemporary bridge for the younger generation to embrace their cultural roots through the fusion of theater, dance, and music. By blending traditional elements from various regions, this work invites us to connect with our deepest heart and soul while proving that progress does not require us to abandon the richness of our national identity,” said the Deputy Minister while attending the press conference of Pagelaran Sabang Merauke at Grand Indonesia, Jakarta, on Wednesday (20/5).
Pagelaran Sabang Merauke Indonesian Broadway is a colossal performing arts masterpiece initiated by iForte since 2022, consistently combining theater, dance, music, and ethnic fashion parades from across the archipelago on a grand scale. This year, under the theme Hikayat Srikandi Nusantara, the spectacular performance is scheduled to take place from August 21–23 at Indonesia Arena, Senayan, featuring stories of exemplary women from various Indonesian folktales.
“To the entire production team, artists, and talents involved, prepare yourselves to give your very best. Just play, have fun, and give it your best. Let us together support this ecosystem, celebrate our culture, and realize an Indonesian creative industry that continues to gain recognition worldwide,” added the Deputy Minister.
Dok. Bureau for Communication of the Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency.
The Ministry of Creative Economy is committed to supporting this masterpiece inspired by the spirit of Hanya Indonesia yang Punya so that it becomes not only a source of domestic pride, but also a showcase of cultural diplomacy on the global stage. The comprehensive development of this performance represents the tangible strength of an end-to-end industry within the creative sector with significant impact.
Through this press conference, the production details and grandeur of Hikayat Srikandi Nusantara were presented to inspire pride among younger generations toward their ancestral heritage through the involvement of 1,700 production personnel, including 700 artists and 387 dancers, supported by the use of more than 1,500 costumes. For audiences wishing to witness this grand performance in person, tickets will officially go on sale starting May 21, 2026.
“This year’s performance will be far more spectacular than before. Pagelaran Sabang Merauke is returning because of the extraordinary enthusiasm and pride shown by audiences during the previous event. This is our tribute to demonstrate just how extraordinary Indonesia truly is,” said President Director & CEO of iForte & Protelindo Group, Ferdinandus Aming Santoso.
Dok. Bureau for Communication of the Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency.
Historically, the event has been staged six times in various locations with tremendous success, including in August 2025 when it attracted 28,000 spectators and involved 1,500 art practitioners under the theme Hikayat Nusantara. Through this consistency, the performance has proven effective in connecting the spiritual values of nature and humanity while strengthening national unity harmoniously from the westernmost to the easternmost parts of Indonesia.
The press conference was also attended by iForte executives as the initiators, renowned dance maestros, music arrangers, and leading ethnic fashion designers directly involved in the production. Meanwhile, the Deputy Minister was accompanied by the Ministry’s Director of Fine Arts and Performing Arts, Dadam Mahdar.
Kiagoos Irvan Faisal
Head of Bureau for Communication
Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency
