Bali, 14 August 2025 – Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar emphasized the importance of cross-country collaboration within ASEAN to strengthen the competitiveness of the regional furniture industry on the international stage. Deputy Minister Irene highlighted that sustainability, traceability, and high-quality supply chains are key to export success.
Wakil Menteri Ekonomi Kreatif, Irene Umar, dalam Panel Discussion bertema 'One Market, Many Makers: Unifying ASEAN for Global Furniture Leadership' pada ajang ASEAN Youth Furniture Exchange (AYFE) 2025, Bali, Kamis (14/08/2025).
“Design, art, music, culinary, and furniture are all vital subsectors of the creative economy. Indonesia and ASEAN countries have tremendous potential to penetrate global markets when united as a single regional force. This is the moment for ASEAN to build a strong creative ecosystem and become the new engine of growth at the international level,” said Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene during the Panel Discussion themed ‘One Market, Many Makers: Unifying ASEAN for Global Furniture Leadership’ at the ASEAN Youth Furniture Exchange (AYFE) 2025 held at The Meru Sanur, Bali, on Thursday, 14 August 2025.
“The creative economy relies on value generated from creativity. International market data and consumer trends are the foundation of policymaking. Without accurate market intelligence, it is difficult for industry players to compete globally,” she added.
Communication Bureau of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
AYFE 2025 took place on 12–14 August 2025 and was attended by 109 young creative industry participants from seven ASEAN countries. The forum served as a platform for exchanging ideas, building business networks, and facilitating cross-border cooperation while promoting digital transformation and strengthening national branding.
Communication Bureau of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
“The government is committed to facilitating international collaboration, enhancing the capacity of young creative talents, and optimizing the potential of the region. All these efforts are directed toward making the creative industry a new engine of growth on the road to Indonesia Emas 2045,” said Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene.
In the same session, Expert Staff for International Relations at the Ministry of Trade, Johni Martha, underlined the importance of an integrated ASEAN trade framework, reduction of non-tariff barriers, and the implementation of efficient supply chain policies. He added that aligned trade policies supported by accurate data will accelerate the growth of the creative sector while expanding international market access for industry players. These measures will provide greater opportunities for young creative talents across ASEAN to innovate and grow.
Kiagoos Irvan Faisal
Acting Head of the Bureau for Communication
Ministry of Creative Economy
