Jakarta, 14 September 2025 – Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar attended the inauguration of the Board of the Indonesian Buddhist Scholars Association (DPP KCBI). Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene emphasized that Indonesia is a religious country, recognizing six official religions and the noble values contained within them.
Wakil Menteri Ekonomi Kreatif, Irene Umar, memberi sambutan pada pengukuhan Dewan dan pelantikan Dewan Pengurus Pusat Keluarga Cendekiawan Buddhis Indonesia (DPP KCBI), Jakarta, Minggu (14/09/2025).
“Indonesia is a religious country. Buddhism, or any religion, spreads seeds of goodness and love to prevent division. We must unite because the foundation of Indonesia as a religious nation is based on mutual cooperation and gotong royong, moving towards a Golden Indonesia,” said Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene during the event at Gedung Pusat Niaga, Arena JIExpo Kemayoran, Jakarta on Sunday, 14 September 2025.
KCBI serves as a platform for Buddhist scholars to consolidate efforts and provide contributions for the advancement of Buddhism in Indonesia. For 31 years, KCBI has promoted the spirit of compassion, mutual cooperation, and dedication to the nation, aligning with the national development agenda.
Dok. Biro Komunikasi Kementerian Ekonomi Kreatif/ Badan Ekonomi Kreatif.
Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene encouraged Buddhist scholars to maintain harmony among each other, regardless of their religion, and to cultivate mutual love. She further explained the role of the creative economy in personal development and navigating current global challenges. She also highlighted the synergy of religion and creativity in driving the growth and formulation of creative economy policies.
“The creative economy emerges as a new engine of growth, encompassing 17 subsectors. It maps the ecosystem along with its entire value chain. This aligns with many Buddhist teachings that bridge goodness, such as compassion and meditation, to harness positive energy,” explained Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene.
Dok. Biro Komunikasi Kementerian Ekonomi Kreatif/ Badan Ekonomi Kreatif.
The event was also attended by Director General of Buddhist Community Guidance, Ministry of Religious Affairs, Supriyadi, who expressed confidence that KCBI could lead the Buddhist community toward a better future.
“We congratulate KCBI and hope it can become a government partner in translating strategic issues, both related to nationhood and religion. With the expertise of the board and management, we can develop a measurable roadmap and work hand in hand. May the Buddhist community continue to progress and achieve higher quality,” said Supriyadi.
Meanwhile, KCBI Chairperson Bhikkhu Dhammavuddho Thera affirmed that KCBI’s mission will continue to be grounded in both Dharma of Religion and Dharma of the State, ensuring continuity over the next five years.
Dok. Biro Komunikasi Kementerian Ekonomi Kreatif/ Badan Ekonomi Kreatif.
“Over the next five years, we hope to synergize so that the quality of human resources in the Buddhist community can grow, not only in Jakarta but also in other areas with significant Buddhist populations, such as West Kalimantan, Bangka Belitung, Central Java, and East Java. May the merits gained from KCBI benefit both ourselves and the Buddhist community, now and in the future,” said Bhante Dhammavuddho.
Aligned with this vision, KCBI Advisory Board member Hartati Murdaya emphasized that KCBI must play an active role and contribute to national unity. She highlighted the enduring spirit of gotong royong – helping the weak – in strengthening the nation.
Dok. Biro Komunikasi Kementerian Ekonomi Kreatif/ Badan Ekonomi Kreatif.
“KCBI always strives for unity, as the strong help the weak. Regardless of background, the most important thing is that Indonesia is united. We must recognize that we are one nation, one homeland, and one family, so that all KCBI management inaugurated today can actualize this spirit in daily life,” said Hartati Murdaya.
The inauguration of the KCBI Central Board for the 2024–2029 term carried the theme: “Indonesian Buddhist Scholars Based on Dharma of Religion and Dharma of the State Towards Golden Indonesia 2045.” In addition to the Advisory Board, the event was attended by the Honorary Board, Patrons, Expert Board, and representatives from KCBI branches across several provinces.
Kiagoos Irvan Faisal
Acting Head of Bureau of Communication
Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency
