Jakarta, 13 September 2025 – Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar appreciated the Aniwayang performance by Desa Timun at Galeri Indonesia Kaya, Jakarta. The show featured innovative performing arts that blend traditional wayang kulit with modern elements.
Wakil Menteri Ekonomi Kreatif, Irene Umar, menghadiri pagelaran Aniwayang by Desa Timun di Galeri Indonesia Kaya, Jakarta, Sabtu (13/09/2025).
“This performance is amazing and fun, and this is what Indonesian children should experience. Presenting wayang in such a cute, engaging way allows children to feel the magic of our culture. Even though this is Indonesia’s cultural heritage, it’s presented differently,” said Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar during the event on Saturday, 13 September 2025.
Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene highlighted that the performance created a fresh and interactive experience for both children and families. She emphasized the importance of presenting cultural arts in formats that are closer to younger generations. According to her, performances like this are not only entertaining but also an effective way to introduce culture in an enjoyable manner.
“If not through works like this, what else will our children experience? This performance is not just entertainment; it’s a creative way to introduce our culture in a fun and accessible way. Even parents are curious and want to try the experience of being a dalang,” added Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene.
Aniwayang Live this time carried the theme ‘Kenalan Yuk’, introducing Desa Timun’s unique characters, including Cila, Cili, Cilo, and Ayam. Five dalangs performed simultaneously: Daud Nugraha (Cili), Ricca Nugraha (Cila), Hiro Nugraha (Ayam), Carmen Nugraha (Cilo), and Nasya Hikari (Desa Timun). The event was attended by approximately 150 audience members of various ages.
The creator of Aniwayang, Daud Nugraha, explained that the idea originated from a love for wayang kulit and a desire to preserve cultural heritage.
“We want Aniwayang to serve as a bridge for young generations to know and appreciate traditional culture. The hope is to nurture a generation that is creative, expressive, and culturally aware,” he said.
Doc. Communication Bureau of Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
Daud added that the main difference between Aniwayang Live and its digital version on YouTube lies in the atmosphere of the performance. While the digital format is limited to video, the live performance offers an experience similar to a traditional wayang kulit show, complete with audience interaction, dalangs, music, and interactive games designed for families and children.
Aniwayang demonstrates that innovation can go hand in hand with cultural preservation. Through a modern approach, wayang kulit can come alive in the hearts of younger generations without losing its original meaning. This performance also exemplifies how the performing arts subsector in the creative economy ecosystem can unite traditional values with new creativity.
The next Aniwayang performance is scheduled for 4 October 2025 at the Wayang Museum, Kota Tua, Jakarta. It will be held regularly once a month, allowing more people to experience the combination of traditional arts and creative innovation offered by Aniwayang by Desa Timun.
Kiagoos Irvan Faisal
Acting Head of Bureau of Communication
Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency
