KILASJATENG.ID– First Lady Iriana Jokowi opened the series of peak events for the 44th Anniversary of the Indonesian National Crafts Council (Dekranas) at Hotel Alila Solo, Central Java, on Wednesday, May 15, 2024.

In her speech, First Lady Iriana praised the appearance of hundreds of participants and guests who showcased local clothing products from their respective regions.

“Yes, I almost didn't recognize anyone because all the women present here are wearing fabrics from their regions. On this special day, I would like to wish Dekranas a happy 44th anniversary. I hereby officially open the Dekranas Expo 2024. Thank you,” she said.

After delivering her speech, the First Lady struck the gong three times as a symbol of the commencement of the 44th Dekranas Anniversary peak events in Solo City. This was followed by the cutting of a tumpeng as a gesture of gratitude for another year of Dekranas.

Meanwhile, in her speech, Dekranas Chairperson 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 seen how Indonesian handicraft products have gained recognition and attention both nationally and internationally. Let us continue to grow together, inspire one another, and elevate the nation's cultural heritage to a higher level,” she said.

Loemongga Agus Gumiwang, Deputy Executive Chairperson I of Dekranas and Chairperson of the 44th Dekranas Anniversary Celebration Committee, added that this year’s Dekranas anniversary theme is ‘Growing Together, Advancing the Nation’s Heritage,’ which reflects the spirit of realizing Dekranas' vision and mission.

“With this theme, we invite all Indonesians to take part in preserving and developing craft and textile products, which are integral to Indonesia’s cultural wealth,” Loemongga explained.

“The 44th Dekranas Anniversary Celebration officially begins today with 1,500 invited guests and will be followed by the 2024 Dekranas Craft and Cultural Float Parade, running from Sriwedari Stadium to Pura Mangkunegaran. The Expo will also take place for four days,” Loemongga added.

The peak series of the 44th Dekranas Anniversary events in Solo City will be held from May 15 to 18, 2024, across three different locations. These include the thanksgiving ceremony and Expo opening at Hotel Alila Solo, the Decorated Float Parade and Cultural Procession along Jalan Slamet Riyadi, which will be contested for the First Lady’s Trophy, and the Dekranas Expo at Pamedan Pura Mangkunegaran.

The Expo will feature 257 craft product booths, Nusantara culinary stands, and consultation services for artisans participating in the event.

Equally important, the event will also host “Bincang Dekranas,” a discussion forum covering various interesting topics, such as the digitalization of small and medium-sized industry products, global market expansion, and product branding strategies. Experts from ministries, government agencies, private sectors, state-owned enterprises (BUMN), and Dekranasda from provinces, regencies, and cities will participate.*

Source: https://kilasjateng.id/2024/05/ibu-negara-iriana-buka-rangkaian-acara-puncak-hut-ke-44-di-kota-solo/