SOLO, suaramerdeka-solo.com – For four days, Wednesday-Saturday (May 15-18, 2024), Solo City became the venue for the 44th Anniversary celebration of the National Crafts Council (Dekranas).
The peak event of Dekranas' anniversary, including a thanksgiving ceremony and the opening of the Expo, was held on Wednesday (May 15) at the Ballroom of Alila Hotel Solo, attended by the First Lady and Dekranas Patron, Iriana Joko Widodo.
The presence of First Lady Iriana at the event was accompanied by the Chairperson of Dekranas, Wury Ma’ruf Amin, along with all Central Dekranas Board members and members of OASE Kabinet Indonesia Maju. The event continued with an expo visit at Pamedan Pura Mangkunegaran.
In her speech, Iriana praised the appearance of hundreds of participants and guests, most of whom were Dekranasda members. They showcased local clothing products from their respective regions.
“Yes, upon entering, I was amazed because all the women here are wearing fabrics from their regions. On this special day, I wish a happy 44th anniversary to Dekranas. I hereby officially open the Dekranas Expo 2024,” said Iriana.
The Chairperson of Dekranas, Wury Ma’ruf Amin, stated that since its establishment 44 years ago, Dekranas has undergone a long journey filled with challenges and proud achievements.
“We have heard and seen how Indonesia’s craft industry products have gained recognition and attention both nationally and internationally. Let us continue growing together, inspiring one another, and elevating the nation's cultural heritage to greater heights,” said Wury.
On another note, the First Deputy Chairperson of Dekranas and Chair of the 44th Dekranas Anniversary Organizing Committee, Loemongga Agus Gumiwang, revealed that this year’s theme is ‘Grow Together, Advance the Nation’s Heritage,’ reflecting the spirit of realizing Dekranas' vision and mission.
“With this theme, we invite all Indonesians to participate in preserving and developing craft and textile products, which are an inseparable part of Indonesia’s cultural wealth,” explained Loemongga.
She added that Dekranas’ anniversary falls on March 3. Various activities have been carried out, such as training, mentoring, and workshops in collaboration with all ministries/agencies that are ex-officio members of Dekranas.
Additionally, a low-cost staple food bazaar was held as a form of sharing with the community.
“The peak celebration of the 44th Dekranas Anniversary begins today, attended by 1,500 guests. It will be followed by the Craft and Culture Float Parade of Dekranas 2024, with a route from Sriwedari Stadium to Pura Mangkunegaran. There will also be a four-day expo,” she explained.
According to the organizing committee's data, there are 257 booths featuring craft products, Indonesian culinary stalls, and consultation services for artisans participating in the Dekranas Expo.
Additionally, the event will feature Dekranas Talks, a discussion forum covering various interesting topics related to the digitalization of small and medium-sized industries, global market penetration, and product branding strategies. These discussions will involve various ministries, government agencies, private sector representatives, state-owned enterprises, and Dekranasda representatives from provinces, regencies, and cities.
The event will conclude with the Float Parade Competition and Cultural Parade, competing for the First Lady’s Trophy. The parade will feature hundreds of decorated vehicles traveling along the main road of Slamet Riyadi Solo, covering approximately 2.3 kilometers.**
