Jakarta, 3 October 2025 — Following the success of Siddhartha The Musical in May 2024, Prajnaparamita Foundation (LPUB) presented another internationally scaled musical drama titled Guan Yin The Musical. Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar attended the performance and noted that this production conveys messages that transcend national and linguistic boundaries.
Wakil Menteri Ekonomi Kreatif, Irene Umar, menyaksikan Guan Yin The Musical di JIEXPO Theatre, Kemayoran, Jakarta, Jumat (03/10/2025).
“This performance is not just entertainment—it can serve as soft diplomacy across nations, cultures, and religions. This is the essence of the creative economy, where human creativity can touch hearts without barriers. As President Prabowo said, We are fellow human beings. If not us, then who else will spread love?” said Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene on Friday, 3 October 2025.
In agreement, Director for Visual and Performing Arts at the Ministry of Creative Economy, Dadam Mahdar, emphasized the importance of such works for the development of the creative industry.
“The creative economy must be an engine of growth. Musicals that combine theater, dance, and vocals can serve as an example for Indonesian performing arts advocates in producing works that are both meaningful and impactful,” he stated.
Guan Yin The Musical was produced by Asia Musical Productions (AMP) from Malaysia and staged in Jakarta under the organization of the Musical Committee led by Sutina Irsan. The production highlights values of compassion, sincerity, and wisdom that are relevant to contemporary life.
The musical ran five performances from 3–5 October 2025 at JIEXPO Theatre, Kemayoran, accommodating over 12,000 spectators. Dozens of actors and musicians from Malaysia performed under the direction of Ho Lin Huay, who also served as producer, director, and scriptwriter.
Communication Bureau of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
The story is presented in four main acts: Legend of Miao Shan, Guan Yin with the Fish Basket, Guan Yin Sprinkling Water, and Guan Yin Who Does Not Want to Leave. Each act blends cultural, spiritual, and modern artistic elements, reflecting universal human values.
Guan Yin, or Kwan Im, is depicted as a Bodhisattva who chooses to remain in the world to hear human suffering. Her compassion forms the core message of the musical, teaching sincerity, courage, and boundless love.
“By watching this performance, we hope many people will feel its benefits and experience peace and happiness,” said Sutina Irsan, Chair of the Guan Yin The Musical 2025 Committee.
With cross-sector support, Guan Yin The Musical marks an important moment for the development of Indonesia’s performing arts subsector. The presence of this international production reinforces the creative economy as a new force capable of advancing culture while providing tangible benefits to society.
Communication Bureau of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
The event was also attended by Minister of Culture Fadli Zon, Director General of Buddhist Guidance at the Ministry of Religious Affairs Supriyadi, Chairwoman of Walubi Hartati Murdaya, as well as representatives from the embassies of Thailand, Sri Lanka, and India. The participation of spiritual leaders and the public further strengthened the universal significance of the compassion message conveyed.
Kiagoos Irvan Faisal
Acting Head of Bureau of Communication
Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency
