SOLO, KILATSOLO.COM – The Peak Event of the 44th Anniversary of the Indonesian National Crafts Council (Dekranas) was attended by the First Lady and Patron of Dekranas, Iriana Joko Widodo. The series of peak events took place on May 15–18 in Surakarta, Central Java.

The peak celebration of the 44th Dekranas Anniversary began on May 15 with a thanksgiving ceremony and the opening of the Expo. First Lady Iriana, along with Dekranas Chairperson Wury Ma’ruf Amin, the entire Central Dekranas Board, and members of OASE Kabinet Indonesia Maju, then visited the Expo at Pamedan Pura Mangkunegaran.

In her speech, Iriana praised the appearance of hundreds of participants and guests, the majority of whom were Dekranasda members. They confidently showcased local clothing products from their respective regions.

“Yes, I was amazed because all the women here are wearing fabrics from their regions. On this special day, I would like to wish a happy 44th anniversary to Dekranas. I officially open the Dekranas Expo 2024. Thank you,” she stated.

The Chairperson of Dekranas, Wury Ma’ruf Amin, stated that since its establishment 44 years ago, Dekranas has undergone a long journey full of challenges and proud achievements.

“We have heard and seen how Indonesia’s craft industry products have gained attention and recognition both nationally and internationally. Let us continue growing together, inspiring each other, and elevating the nation's cultural heritage to a higher level,” urged Wury.

The First Deputy Chairperson of Dekranas and Chair of the 44th Dekranas Anniversary Organizing Committee, Loemongga Agus Gumiwang, stated 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.

It is known that Dekranas' anniversary falls on March 3. Loemongga explained that a series of events have been held since March 2024, including training, mentoring, and workshops in collaboration with all ministries/agencies that are ex-officio members of Dekranas. This also includes a low-cost staple food bazaar as a form of giving back to the community.

“The peak celebration of the 44th Dekranas Anniversary begins today, attended by 1,500 guests, and will be followed by the 2024 Dekranas Craft and Culture Float Parade, covering a route from Sriwedari Stadium to Pura Mangkunegaran. A four-day Expo will also take place,” added Loemongga.

It is noted that there are 257 craft product booths, Nusantara culinary booths, and consultation services for artisans participating in the Dekranas Expo. Equally important, the event will feature Dekranas Talks, a discussion platform covering various interesting topics such as the digitalization of small and medium industry products, global market expansion, and product branding strategies, involving ministries, government agencies, the private sector, state-owned enterprises, and Dekranasda representatives from provinces, regencies, and cities.

The event will conclude with the Float Parade Competition and Cultural Parade, where participants will compete for the First Lady’s Trophy. The parade will feature hundreds of decorated vehicles traveling a distance of 2.3 kilometers.