Jakarta, June 10, 2025 – Deputy Minister of Creative Economy, Irene Umar, emphasized the strategic role of the creative economy as a driver of national economic growth, which begins at the regional level. She emphasized that the nomenclature of the creative economy offices in the regions is important as vital extensions of the Ministry of Creative Economy.
This was conveyed by Deputy Minister Irene during her appearance as a guest on the podcast What Is Up, Indonesia? (WIUI) at Mad for Coffee, Cipete, Jakarta, on Tuesday, June 10, 2025. Deputy Minister Irene explained that the creative economy is an activity based on creativity, producing outcomes with commercial value, which distinguishes it from other ministries. The Ministry of Creative Economy focuses on developing the potential of ideas, culture, and innovation as sources of national economic growth that begin at the regional level.
“We often refer to ourselves as subject matter experts in the 17 creative economy subsectors, ranging from culinary, crafts, to applications and game development,” said Deputy Minister Irene during the podcast.
For this reason, Deputy Minister Irene emphasized the importance of having creative economy offices at the regional level as a concrete step toward policy decentralization. According to her, most creative economy activities are still concentrated in one region, whereas many other regions have great potential that remains underutilized.
“Therefore, it is important for regional governments to have their own creative economy offices, not merely as a complement, but as an extension of the Ministry of Creative Economy to activate the creative hubs that have already been established. We will help fill them with content through various programs such as Emak-Emak Matic, Gen Matic, and others,” Deputy Minister Irene added.
One of the podcast hosts, Andovi da Lopez, appreciated the initiative. He highlighted the importance of having facilities and production spaces for creators, especially podcasters.
“Not all creators have access to shooting locations and equipment like this. Yet production cost is one of the biggest barriers to creating content,” said Andovi.
Another host, Abigail Limuria, also emphasized the need for equitable distribution of facilities and support outside of the city center. She expressed hope that the Ministry of Creative Economy can help address the challenges faced by creative workers across various regions.
“Our talents are amazing. What they need is an ecosystem that enables them to focus on the creative process without being burdened by technical and logistical issues,” she said.
What Is Up, Indonesia? (WIUI) is an independent media platform that aims to bridge the understanding of Indonesia’s social and political issues for younger generations who are more familiar with the English language. Through fact-based content delivered in a light and engaging manner, WIUI serves as an inclusive dialogue platform for urban youth.
Kiagoos Irvan Faisal
Acting Head of the Bureau for Communication
Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency
