“The creative economy’s contribution to the national GDP continues to increase and has now reached Rp1,500 trillion,” Harsya said.
He said the sector employs more than 26.5 million workers nationwide. In the first half of 2025, creative economy exports totaled US$12.9 billion — the highest in five years — while investment reached Rp90.12 trillion, according to ministry data.
Speaking at the opening of the National Cybersecurity Connect 2025 forum in Jakarta on Wednesday, Harsya said digital creativity and technology have become key pillars of Indonesia’s creative economy.
To strengthen this foundation, the ministry has established a deputy division dedicated to technology and digital affairs.
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“This includes directorates for games, applications, digital content, and emerging digital technologies such as blockchain, cybersecurity, and Web3, as well as a directorate for ICT services,” he said.
However, Harsya cautioned that as creative activities increasingly move online, cybersecurity threats are also rising sharply.
“We believe cybersecurity is the shield that protects national innovation and the creative industry,” he said.
He added that the ministry plays a strategic role in supporting local technology startups to develop homegrown cybersecurity solutions, aiming to position Indonesia as a producer rather than a consumer of digital security technologies.
“These innovations will continue to receive government support so that Indonesia can lead in cybersecurity technology,” Harsya said.
The government sees the creative economy — spanning design, film, games, music, fashion, and digital content — as a crucial driver of sustainable growth in Southeast Asia’s largest economy.
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Translator: Farhan, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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