RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia is strengthening its national talent development strategy for the arts and culture sector as part of its long-term vision to build globally competitive human resources by 2045. The initiative aims to create a sustainable ecosystem that nurtures artistic talent while supporting cultural development and economic growth.

The Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas), in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, held the Road to Talent Fest 2026 for Arts and Culture at the National Library Auditorium in Jakarta on Wednesday, August 5, 2026. Carrying the theme "Strengthening the Talent Ecosystem Towards Golden Indonesia 2045," the event brought together policymakers, artists, and cultural stakeholders to strengthen collaboration in talent development.

The program forms part of Indonesia's National Talent Management (MTN), a government initiative designed to identify, nurture, develop, and empower talent in research and innovation, arts and culture, and sports through a structured and sustainable approach. Talent Fest 2026 also serves as a platform for showcasing achievements, sharing best practices, expanding professional networks, and increasing international recognition for Indonesian talent.

Secretary of the Ministry of National Development Planning Teni Widuriyanti said the National Talent Management program is a strategic policy that integrates talent development across sectors. "National Talent Management is a breakthrough policy to ensure talent development is no longer fragmented, but becomes measurable, structured, integrated, and sustainable. Arts and culture are not only essential for advancing culture but also strategic sectors that contribute to Indonesia's productivity and economic growth," she said.

Meanwhile, Director General for Cultural Development, Utilization, and Promotion at the Ministry of Culture, Ahmad Mahendra, stressed that talent development must go beyond short-term programs. He said the government is committed to supporting artists through every stage of their journey, from talent identification and capacity building to creative production and international recognition.

"Arts and Culture National Talent Management is designed as a continuous and holistic talent journey. We want every talented individual to have the opportunity to grow, expand their access, and contribute to Indonesia's long-term human resource development toward Golden Indonesia 2045," Ahmad Mahendra said.

The event featured performances by emerging talents supported through the National Talent Management program, including contemporary Betawi traditional dance, musical performances by Endah N Rhesa, and a collaboration with traditional macapat singer Tatik. Filmmaker Khozy Rizal also shared his creative journey and discussed how Indonesian cultural identity can reach wider international audiences through cinema.

The program concluded with panel discussions and interactive workshops highlighting the importance of cross-sector collaboration, community engagement, and expanded access to education, creative production, and professional networks. Organizers expressed hope that Road to Talent Fest 2026 would strengthen Indonesia's cultural talent ecosystem and increase global recognition of Indonesian artists as the country advances toward its Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.