Creative Economy Ministry Seeks to Leverage Vesak Values to Strengthen Culture-Based Creative Ecosystem

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Minister of Creative Economy, Teuku Riefky Harsya, has emphasised that the celebration of Vesak Day 2570 BE (Buddhist Era) in 2026 serves as an important momentum to strengthen the ecosystem of the culture-based creative economy, spiritual tourism, and Indonesia’s diplomacy of diversity.

“The National Vesak Dharmasanti becomes a momentum that unites the values of peace, culture, and the creativity of the people. This celebration is not only a space for spirituality and Indonesian cultural diplomacy, but also a stage for the creative works of the nation’s younger generation, involving art and cultural communities as well as collaborations among creative economy practitioners,” said Riefky in an official statement confirmed in Jakarta on Tuesday.

The presence of the Ministry of Creative Economy in the commemorations is a form of support for the development of national activities based on cultural and religious values, which are capable of providing economic impact while strengthening Indonesia’s image in the eyes of the world.

“Vesak teaches the value of compassion and fosters wisdom as a guide for the life of the Indonesian people, which is full of harmony. My highest appreciation goes to Walubi for demonstrating how tradition and spirituality can become sources of inspiration, innovation, and economic value that coexist with harmony within society,” the Minister of Creative Economy added.

The 2026 National Vesak Dharmasanti celebration carries the theme “Dharma as a Source of Morality and Wisdom” and the sub-theme “Compassion as a Source of World Peace.”

The peak of the event features various performances such as traditional dances, appearances by the Central Java Walubi choir, and the release of peace lanterns (lampions) reflecting Indonesia as a harmonious and dignified nation.

The activities also emphasise the position of Borobudur Temple as a symbol of civilisation and Indonesia’s cultural diplomacy as a nation that upholds tolerance and world peace.

This synergy is expected to make Vesak an inspiration for building an inclusive, creative, and civilised society.

The 2570 BE National Vesak celebrations were also attended by the Deputy Minister of Creative Economy, Irene Umar, various international figures, and hundreds of thousands of Buddhists from various regions.