Jakarta, August 24, 2025 – Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency, Irene Umar, emphasized that the preservation of tradition and creative innovation are the new engines of growth for Indonesia. This statement was delivered during the Festival Merah Putih “Jejak Merah Putih,” which showcased unique collaborations ranging from Nusantara weaving and culinary creations to art by children with autism, held at The Dharmawangsa Jakarta on Sunday, January 24, 2025.
Biro Komunikasi Kemenekraf - Wakil Menteri Ekonomi Kreatif, Irene Umar, menghadiri Festival Merah Putih 2025, Jakarta, Minggu (24/08/2025).
“This festival shows how vast the space is for Indonesia’s creative economy to grow. From culinary, fashion, jewelry, to visual arts, all complement each other in shaping an inclusive ecosystem. Creativity is the new engine of growth for our nation—not only in terms of innovation and markets but also sustainability, culture, and diversity,” said the Deputy Minister of Creative Economy.
The event elevated the spirit of independence through cross-cultural and wellness collaborations as well as creativity. Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene observed various exhibitions that presented the potential of Indonesia’s culinary, fashion, and jewelry subsectors. She also witnessed a fashion show that highlighted Indonesia’s rich weaving traditions—a manifestation of local wisdom capable of engaging in dialogue with global trends.
Communication Bureau of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene also appreciated the artworks created by children with autism spectrum disorder, displayed as part of the Health & Wellness Talkshow in collaboration with the Autism Foundation of Indonesia.
Furthermore, she took part in a traditional tumpeng decorating competition, one of the festival’s highlights that highlighted the cultural richness of the archipelago. Her participation reinforced the message that strengthening the capacity of creative talents must go hand-in-hand with preserving local values.
Communication Bureau of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
The festival was attended by Deputy Minister of Tourism Ni Luh Enik Ermawati, Deputy Minister of Public Works Diana Kusumastuti, and Senior Expert Staff of the Presidential Staff Office Cheryl Tansil. The presence of representatives from multiple ministries and agencies demonstrated the importance of cross-sector collaboration in strengthening the creative ecosystem, while preparing the nation for its 100th year of independence.
Through Festival Merah Putih, the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a competitive and inclusive creative economy ecosystem. This can only be realized through hexahelix collaboration—involving government, creative actors, academia, communities, media, and the financial sector—as the foundation for achieving national progress in 2045.
Kiagoos Irvan Faisal
Acting Head of Bureau for Communication
Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency
