Industry Ministry to Hold Swarna Wastra Nusantara 2026 Exhibition to Strengthen SMEs

The Ministry of Industry is continuing to expand market access and strengthen the image of local products through the Swarna Wastra Nusantara (SWN) 2026 Exhibition. Carrying the theme ‘Weaving and Craft Products Across the Ages’, this event serves as a strategic stage for Small and Medium Industry (IKM) players to showcase their work amidst the rising trend of sustainable or slow fashion. Daily Deputy Chairperson I of the National Crafts Council (Dekranas), Loemongga Kartasasmita, stated that Indonesian traditional textiles (wastra Nusantara) have strong relevance to the concept of slow fashion. The use of traditional techniques and natural materials gives these products a high cultural value that cannot be replaced by mass production. ‘The production of Indonesian wastra takes a long time, but it has strong durability and can be passed down through generations. This is the main attraction in both domestic and international markets,’ said Loemongga at the exhibition opening at Plasa Industri, Jakarta, on Tuesday (9/6). Beyond the cultural aspect, the craft sector is showing stellar performance in strengthening the national economy. Based on data from the Ministry of Industry’s Data and Information Centre, the export value of the handicraft industry recorded positive growth at the beginning of 2026. Director General of Small, Medium, and Miscellaneous Industries (IKMA), Reni Yanita, explained that SWN 2026 showcases superior products from 45 fostered SMEs. The products on display include woven fabrics, songket, batik, and accessories that are packaged in a modern yet inclusive way. The exhibition, which takes place from 9–11 June 2026, is the result of synergy between the Ministry of Industry, Dekranas, PT Mediatama Binakreasi, PT Astra International Tbk, and the Dharma Bhakti Astra Foundation. This activity is also part of a series of events commemorating Dekranas’ 46th anniversary, the peak of which will be held in Makassar in the coming July. As an effort to strengthen competencies before the exhibition, the Ministry of Industry has carried out a series of coaching programmes in various regions. Director of Chemical, Clothing, and Craft SMEs, Budi Setiawan, emphasised the importance of artisan regeneration. Through daily Wastra Creation Workshops, visitors—especially the younger generation—are invited to see how tradition can adapt to the times through the making of woven bags, ethnic coasters, and Nusantara-themed keychains. ‘Regeneration is the key to the sustainability of cultural heritage. We want young people to see that tradition and innovation can go hand in hand to generate high economic value,’ concluded Budi. Mediatama Event Director, Umi Noor Wijiati, expressed hope that this exhibition will serve as a bridge to strengthen public pride in using authentic Indonesian wastra products on the global stage.