Indonesia's government is pushing for creative economy offices in 22 provinces and about 70 regencies or cities to bolster the creative industry ecosystem. Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya stated this after meeting creative business actors in Jakarta. The initiative aims to expand support access for creative entrepreneurs.
Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya revealed that 22 provinces and about 70 regencies or cities are currently processing the addition of creative economy functions to their organizational structures.
"Previously only a few provinces, today there are additions of around 22 provinces in process. For regencies and cities, there are also additions of about 70, so the total will be around 80," he said after meeting videographer Amsal Sitepu in Jakarta on Thursday.
The offices do not need to stand alone but can be merged with tourism, culture, or micro, small, and medium enterprises sectors. "It doesn't have to be separate, it can be combined, but at least there is a creative economy title in that office," he stated. These offices are crucial for access to services like training, funding, markets, and legal protection.
The central government has coordinated with the Ministry of Home Affairs to accelerate the process. The creative industry is seen as contributing to job creation, poverty reduction, and increased regional income. Amsal Sitepu stressed the need for acceleration so regional creative actors get better information access.
"Because in the regions we have limited information access, so there needs to be acceleration so that creative economy actors in the regions can also be reached," he said.