Jakarta, 26 August 2025 – The Ministry of Creative Economy extended its appreciation to Aniwayang Studio for showcasing a captivating wayang animation performance at the World Osaka Expo in Japan on 15 August 2025. The beautifully packaged presentation demonstrated how traditional wayang can evolve and remain relevant on the global stage.
Dok. Biro Komunikasi Kementerian Ekonomi Kreatif - Kementerian Ekonomi Kreatif apresiasi pagelaran Aniwayang di World Osaka Expo, Jakarta, Senin (26/08/2025).
“Aniwayang Studio’s performance shows that wayang is not only a form of entertainment, but also a performing art that conveys philosophical values and national cultural identity,” said Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar on Tuesday, 26 August 2025.
At the World Osaka Expo, Aniwayang Studio presented a performance titled Wayang Anak Desa Timun. The show carried a narrative developed from traditional Indonesian cultural heritage and formed part of a series of cultural presentations delivered by the Indonesia Pavilion.
The studio showcased a range of activities including “timun exercise,” group screenings of the Desa Timun animation, an introduction to wayang puppetry experiences, and a live Aniwayang performance. The Deputy Minister of Creative Economy noted that Aniwayang Studio’s presence at the event reflects Indonesia’s cultural pride and a meaningful effort to preserve tradition through innovation in the performing arts sector.
Communication Bureau of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
“The Ministry of Creative Economy always appreciates talented creators who succeed in appearing on the global stage. Through this performance at the World Osaka Expo, Indonesia’s cultural richness can be introduced more widely. This is a form of creativity from the younger generation in preserving tradition,” Irene said.
Echoing this, Aniwayang Studio Founder and Director Daud Nugraha remarked that their participation in such an international event provides a valuable moment to present wayang as an authentic Indonesian art form.
“This event is important not only for us, but also for Indonesia. Here we show how we can preserve the art of wayang, especially by making it more accessible for children and younger generations by combining traditional puppetry techniques with modern animation,” Daud said.
Communication Bureau of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
Aniwayang Studio is known for the animated series Desa Timun and carries a mission to revive Indonesia’s culture in a light-hearted, humorous, yet meaningful way. In addition to performing cultural showcases, the studio also participated in a business forum attended by international guests.
“As I watched Desa Timun at the World Osaka Expo, I was truly amazed. Usually wayang is associated with traditional shows, but Desa Timun presents it in a fresh and adorable way. Even Japanese children stayed glued to the show from start to finish,” said Nanang, an Indonesian residing in Japan who enjoyed the performance.
Communication Bureau of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
The Ministry of Creative Economy remains committed to achieving inclusive national development and strengthening cultural diplomacy across creative subsectors. Behind every tradition lies vast potential to connect across generations through innovation and creativity. The enthusiastic response at the Indonesia Pavilion during the World Osaka Expo 2025 is proof that Indonesian talent is capable of making its mark on the global stage.
Kiagoos Irvan Faisal
Acting Head of Communication Bureau
Ministry of Creative Economy
