Irene Umar promotes material exploration and curiosity in creative sectors

Indonesian Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar has highlighted the importance of material exploration and intellectual curiosity in fostering creative growth.

During a visit to the Creative Paper Experience 2026 exhibition in Jakarta, Umar encouraged creators to use paper as a medium for experimentation. She noted that exploring textures, colors, and processing techniques can add significant value to creative works and products. The exhibition, organized by Fedrigoni, Surya Palacejaya, and Paper Gallery, featured interactive installations such as a paper lab and various innovative product displays.

In a separate engagement at BINUS University, Umar addressed Master of Design students, urging them to embrace curiosity and ask questions without fear of appearing uninformed. She emphasized that academic environments should serve as safe spaces for critical thinking and continuous learning, sharing that she maintains this inquisitive approach even within her ministerial role.