Jakarta, 29 April, 2026 – The Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency continues to promote the competitiveness of local products to enable them to penetrate global markets. One of these efforts is through strengthening the craft subsector, such as Jepara wood carving, which holds both economic value and cultural identity.
The Deputy Minister of Creative Economy, Irene Umar, attended the Jepara wood carving exhibition “Tatah” at the National Museum, Jakarta, on Wednesday (29/4/2026).
This was emphasized by the Deputy Minister of Creative Economy, Irene Umar, during her visit to the Jepara wood carving exhibition “Tatah” at the National Museum, Jakarta, on Wednesday (29/4).
“Jepara wood carving is not merely a furniture product, but a representation of diligence, historical value, and high aesthetics that constitute a national asset which must reach the global stage, so that our identity is strengthened and the welfare of artisans is improved,” said Irene.
Irene added that the government is committed to supporting business players through intellectual property (IP) protection and the expansion of digital market access. She also noted that Jepara wood carving is part of cultural heritage with high economic value, both in domestic and international markets.
“Our artworks hold extraordinary potential. We must ensure that this craft does not remain confined to galleries, but advances into premium creative products sought after by global collectors through the right downstreaming strategy,” she explained.
Documentation: Bureau for Communication of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
The “TATAH” exhibition serves as an important momentum for the revival of the creative economy by bringing together wood carving, crafts, and interior design within an internationally standardized ecosystem. Through collaboration between the government and rigorous curation, this event is expected to attract international investors to strengthen supply chains and increase national furniture exports.
The exhibition is held at Temporary Exhibition Hall A, National Museum of Indonesia, from April 29 to July 5, 2026. It is a collaborative effort between the Jepara Regency Government, the Jepara Regional Board of the Indonesian Furniture and Handicraft Industry Association (HIMKI), and the Rumah Kartini Jepara historical community, showcasing 35 new thematic wood carving artworks. In addition to contemporary pieces, the exhibition also features historical works by Jepara carving masters in various forms, ranging from sculptures and reliefs to interior decorations and exclusive furniture.
Documentation: Bureau for Communication of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
“Wood carving is a masterpiece of high artistic value, not merely a commodity. This exhibition stands as a concrete step to appreciate the creative process of artists while preserving the sustainability of our cultural heritage,” said the Executive Director of TATAH, Veronica Rompies.
Accompanying the Deputy Minister of Creative Economy was the Director of Crafts, Neli Yana. The event was also attended by the Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon; Vice Chairperson of the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR RI), Lestari Moerdijat; and the Regent of Jepara, Witiarso Utomo.
Kiagoos Irvan Faisal
Head of Bureau for Communication
Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency
