Yogyakarta, June 27, 2025 — The Ministry of Creative Economy strengthens the export readiness of creative economy players through the bootcamp program Akselerasi Kreasi Ekspor Indonesia (ASIK), with a special focus on the craft sub-sector. Yogyakarta has been chosen as the first city to host this program.
"We want exports to be more than just a cool label; it has to be a real way to increase revenue and create high-quality jobs. The creative economy is no longer just a complement, but the pillar of a new economic growth that grows from the grassroots, from creative talents in various regions," said Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar during the ASIK program at ARTOTEL Yogyakarta on Friday, June 27, 2025.
The ASIK program, launched on May 26, 2025, is designed to accelerate export readiness for creative talents in the fashion, crafts, and culinary sectors. Its approach is comprehensive, ranging from curation, training, certification, and business matching to participation in national and international exhibitions.
Out of 171 craft brands registered across Indonesia, only 20 were selected to participate in the ASIK boot camp in Yogyakarta. They represented a wealth of Indonesian craft —from wood, leather, textiles, ceramics, metal, to stone—each with diverse business backgrounds but with strong potential to break into the global market.
Deputy Minister Irene also emphasized the importance of collaboration in building a solid export ecosystem, both among participants and with various cross-sector partners. She hopes that ASIK will not only be a space for gaining technical knowledge but also a starting point for forming strong networks among creative talents from different regions.
"You are in the top 10% of all applicants. Use this opportunity to learn, build networks, and support each other. The friendships can become the foundation for a sustainable business ecosystem," said Deputy Minister Irene.
To ensure sustainable impact, the Ministry of Creative Economy has prepared follow-up support, including business mentoring, certification facilitation, advanced export training, and direct connections to international buyers through ITPC (Indonesian Trade Promotion Center) and its global partner network. Deputy Minister Irene also underscored that the knowledge gained from this program is expected to be the starting point for long-term transformation.
"Our goal is not just for Indonesian craft products to appear in international markets, but for creative talents to grow into strong and independent individuals at a global level. We aim to boost revenue, elevate businesses to the next level, and, most importantly, ensure that these exports are beneficial for our country," said Deputy Minister Irene.
"The knowledge you gain here is not only about opening up markets but also about building resilience. We hope participants can become drivers of the creative economy in their regions, inspire others, be beneficial for all elements, and strengthen Indonesia's position on the global stage," added Deputy Minister Irene.
This initiative is part of the Ministry of Creative Economy’s long-term strategy to make the creative economy the new engine of growth, starting from the regions, rooted in the strength of communities, culture, and local talent. Accompanying Deputy Minister Irene Umar at this event was Director for Craft Neli Yana.
Kiagoos Irvan Faisal
Acting Head of Bureau for Communication
Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency
