KBRN, Jakarta: A fresh interpretation of traditional puppetry captivated audiences at the World Osaka Expo 2025, as Aniwayang Studio showcased its signature fusion of classic wayang and modern animation.

The performance served as a centerpiece of Indonesia’s cultural diplomacy, spotlighting the nation’s artistic heritage on a global platform.

Creative Economy Deputy Minister Irene Umar commended the studio’s innovative approach to cultural preservation.

“The Ministry of Creative Economy consistently supports talented individuals who can perform on the global stage. Through this performance at the World Osaka Expo, Indonesia’s cultural richness can be introduced to a wider audience. It also reflects the creativity of the younger generation in keeping our traditions alive,” she said in a press statement received on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, as reported by antaranews.com.

Aniwayang Studio performed its acclaimed show, Wayang Anak Desa Timun (The Wayang of Timun Village), on August 15, earning enthusiastic reviews.

The production blends traditional storytelling rooted in Indonesian culture with contemporary animation techniques, making wayang more accessible to younger audiences.

Beyond the main performance, the studio hosted a series of interactive activities, including a group exercise called senam timun, a screening of the Desa Timun animation series, and a hands-on puppeteering experience.

This multifaceted program allowed visitors to engage with the art form in dynamic and immersive ways.

Daud Nugraha, Founder and Director of Aniwayang Studio, emphasized the significance of the event for both his team and the broader cultural mission.

“This is a meaningful moment for us and for Indonesia,” he said. “We’re demonstrating how we preserve wayang culture, especially by making it accessible to children and future generations. We do this by combining traditional wayang techniques with modern animation.”

Known for its Desa Timun series, Aniwayang Studio aims to revitalize Indonesian culture through a lighthearted, humorous, and meaningful lens. Their performance resonated with both local and international audiences.

“I was amazed watching Desa Timun at the World Osaka Expo,” said Nanang, an Indonesian expatriate in Japan. “Wayang is usually associated with traditional performances, but Desa Timun presented it in a fresh and adorable way. Japanese children were so captivated, they watched from beginning to end.”

The Ministry of Creative Economy reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Indonesian creatives who use innovative methods to promote national culture abroad. The enthusiastic response at the Indonesian Pavilion underscored the global appeal of these artistic efforts.

“Wayang is not merely entertainment,” Irene added. “It is a performing art that conveys philosophical messages and values, forming part of our national cultural identity.”

Aniwayang Studio also participated in a business forum during the Expo, presenting its creative vision to an international audience. The Ministry emphasized that cultural traditions hold vast potential to connect generations through creative and innovative means. ***