Designer says Indonesian leaders should be used to promote national identity
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Designer and Advisory of the Indonesian Fashion Chamber Ali Charisma believes that it is time for Indonesian leaders to no longer be seen merely as protocol icons, but also as part of promoting the nation’s identity to the world.
“In my opinion, we need to start seeing the clothing of state leaders not only as a matter of protocol or ceremonial attire, but also as part of national identity, cultural diplomacy and the creative industry,” Ali told ANTARA in Jakarta on Monday.
Ali said Indonesia has enormous cultural capital. Wastra such as batik, tenun, songket, ulos and various Nusantara textile techniques can actually be a source of inspiration for building a strong national fashion identity.
He envisions an Indonesian formal state style that remains modern, sophisticated, powerful, and in line with international fashion standards, but when people see it, it still feels distinctly Indonesian.
If this is done consistently by the President, Vice President, ministers, and state officials, Ali believes the effect could be enormous on the national fashion industry, from designers, artisans, weavers, batik makers, the textile industry to MSMEs.
“So in my opinion, we do not need to choose between tradition and modernity. The strength of Indonesian fashion going forward is precisely how we bring traditional Indonesian identity into a modern and global fashion language,” Ali said.
Previously, he commented on the attire worn by President Prabowo Subianto at the 2026 Annual Session of the MPR RI and the Joint Session of the DPR-DPD RI, which he said could still be developed further with an Indonesian touch.
Ali said a formal suit remains the right choice because it gives an authoritative and presidential impression, but its design does not always have to follow the classic Western formula.
“The President of Indonesia must look formal, modern, powerful, and contemporary, but when seen by the world, it must still be felt that he is a representation of Indonesia,” Ali said.
Ali added that Indonesia has extraordinary cultural wealth to be translated into modern tailoring. These elements can be present through wastra textures, very subtle motifs, construction details, and material choices.
He cited a double-breasted suit with a modern cut that can be given a sophisticated Indonesian touch without looking like traditional clothing. This is because Indonesian fashion has room to help build the visual identity of a state leader.