Inacraft 2026 Opened with Focus on Cultural Diplomacy

RRI.CO.ID, Yogyakarta - Embracing the Javanese philosophy Hamemayu Hayuning Bawana (beautifying and preserving the harmony of the universe), Yogyakarta Governor, Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, said the 2026 International Handicraft Trade Fair (Inacraft) is more than a marketplace.

He urged that the exhibition also serves as a bridge of cultural diplomacy that represents the Indonesia on the global stage. The governor believes Southeast Asia’s largest crafts, arts and handicraft fair can help Indonesian artisans break into international markets.

“Inacraft Festival 2026 is a strategic bridge to bring Indonesian, especially Yogyakarta, crafts to the global market while opening opportunities for sustainable trade partnerships for artisans and MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises,” said Sri Sultan during the fair’s opening at Jogja Expo Center (JEC) in Yogyakarta on Wednesday, 15 July 2026.

He said Inacraft, held from 15 to 19 July in Yogyakarta, aligns with administration policy to promote creative economic growth rooted in local wisdom. Yogyakarta’s diverse crafts, such as batik motifs, carving, pottery and silverwork, have unique qualities not found elsewhere.

“Yogyakarta is proud to be part of this long journey and is committed to strengthening its position as a premier destination for craft, culture and tourism on the global stage,” he added, as quoted by Antara.

The governor noted that the presence of international delegations at the festival demonstrates the strength of kriya (handicraft). He said crafts carry not only economic value but also a universal language that crosses national and cultural boundaries.

“To all foreign delegations, welcome to Yogyakarta. May this visit be not only a trading event but also a meaningful cultural experience,” said the governor.

He explained that the Inacraft 2026 theme, Hamemayu Hayuning Bawana: Cultural Crafts for World Harmony, conveys a teaching to continually beautify and preserve the world’s harmony. He said the concept resonates with craftsmanship built on precision, patience and respect for materials and tradition.

“On a broader scale, these values form the foundation for harmony among nations through mutually respectful trade and cultural exchange,” he said.

He encouraged Indonesian artisans and creative industry players to keep producing work with excellent creativity and quality, noting that each craft product represents the nation to the world. Sri Sultan hopes the festival will benefit all participants and expand collaborative networks, stimulate the national creative economy, and collectively elevate Indonesian creations onto the world stage.

Chairperson of Association of Exporters and Producers of Indonesian Handicraft (Asephi), Muchsin Ridjan, said Inacraft Festival is designed as an inclusive business platform to strengthen the competitiveness of Indonesian craft products. The event brings together artisans; micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs); designers; buyers; administration; creative communities; academics; and industry partners within an integrated ecosystem.

“This year the organizers present a more collaborative and inclusive program. The event also provides broader space for MSMEs, artisans, designers, creative communities and buyers from various countries,” he said. ***