Ministry of Creative Economy supports West Sumatra MSMEs

The Indonesian Ministry of Creative Economy is implementing the ‘Ekraf Peduli’ program to support economic recovery in West Sumatra following recent disasters. Through the ‘Pulih Bersama, Bangkit Berdaya’ initiative, the ministry is focusing on strengthening the competitiveness of local MSMEs in Bukittinggi and Payakumbuh.

In Bukittinggi, 50 entrepreneurs from the culinary, craft, and fashion sectors participated in workshops to improve product packaging design. Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar emphasized that packaging serves as a brand identity and a strategic tool for competitiveness, noting that consumers increasingly seek products with unique cultural stories and values. The five best designs will receive redesign support to help them reach global markets.

In Payakumbuh, the ministry is accelerating the productivity of the local craft sector, specifically focusing on weaving and embroidery. This effort aims to increase the added value of these cultural heritage products for both national and international markets. Data indicates the craft subsector remains a strong economic driver, with export values rising from $3.47 billion in early 2025 to $3.82 billion during the same period in 2026.