Creative entrepreneurs, diaspora leaders and government representatives gathered in Singapore for an inspiring dialogue on branding, cross-border collaboration and practical solutions to expand Indonesia’s creative economy into international markets.
Singapore’s Indonesian creative economy community gathered for a lively GEKRAFS Singapore Coffee Meet-Up on 6 July 2026 at Workcentral Singapore, bringing together entrepreneurs, diaspora organisations and government representatives for an afternoon of networking and meaningful discussion. Supported by the Forum Komunikasi Masyarakat Indonesia di Singapura (FKMIS), the event welcomed Irene Umar, Deputy Minister of Creative Economy and Deputy Head of Indonesia’s Creative Economy Agency, who shared her vision for strengthening Indonesia’s global creative economy through collaboration with the Indonesian diaspora.
Opening the event, GEKRAFS Singapore highlighted its role as a platform connecting Indonesian creative economy practitioners and diaspora members in Singapore. Since its establishment in 2019, GEKRAFS has expanded into a nationwide and international network, including regional leadership councils, branch councils and overseas representative offices. Organisers noted that the Coffee Meet-Up, traditionally held for GEKRAFS members, was expanded this year to welcome the wider creative economy community, reflecting growing interest in cross-border partnerships, market access and international business opportunities. Representatives from FKMIS also reaffirmed their commitment to fostering stronger collaboration among Indonesian communities in Singapore to support the nation’s creative industries.
In her keynote address, Irene Umar encouraged Indonesian entrepreneurs to see the diaspora as an extension of Indonesia’s global presence rather than simply overseas communities. She stressed that successful international expansion depends not only on product quality but also on strong branding and storytelling. Drawing on Indonesia’s participation in overseas retail showcases, including promotional activities at Takashimaya Singapore, she explained that Indonesian products need a clear and consistent identity that international consumers can easily recognise. Rather than competing solely on price or production volume, businesses should focus on increasing the perceived value of their products by communicating their craftsmanship, authenticity and cultural heritage.
Addressing questions from participants, the Deputy Minister also unveiled practical initiatives to improve overseas access to Indonesian products. She announced that wearemasa.com would activate its e-commerce platform on 12 July 2026, allowing international customers to purchase Indonesian products more easily. The platform will be integrated with a payment gateway and multiple logistics providers, giving buyers greater flexibility in shipping options. She highlighted one delivery partner offering shipping to Singapore from approximately IDR 65,000 per kilogram, while additional logistics providers with GST-inclusive and priority delivery services are also being incorporated. Irene noted that the platform aims to remain neutral by offering multiple shipping choices and transparent payment processes, making it easier for Indonesian SMEs and creative brands to reach overseas consumers.
The event concluded with an interactive discussion covering export opportunities, retail collaborations, pop-up stores and strategies for strengthening Indonesia’s creative economy ecosystem abroad. Participants exchanged ideas on expanding Indonesian brands into Singapore and beyond, reinforcing GEKRAFS Singapore’s role as a bridge connecting entrepreneurs, diaspora communities and international stakeholders. The Coffee Meet-Up demonstrated a shared commitment to building stronger partnerships and creating new opportunities for Indonesian creative businesses to thrive on the global stage.
Source: IN Diplomacy Reporter
