INACRAFT 2026 Empowers Youth to Modernize Traditional Indonesian Crafts

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Youthful entrepreneurship and technological innovation take center stage as Southeast Asia’s largest handicraft trade show, the Jakarta International Handicraft Trade Fair (INACRAFT) 2026, prepares to showcase how digital tools can modernize traditional artisan heritage.

To run from October 7–11 at the Jakarta International Convention Center (JICC), INACRAFT 2026 will spotlight the theme “Technocraft”, highlighting technology as a driver of transformation in the craft industry.

Chairman of the Indonesian Handicraft Exporters and Producers Association (ASEPHI), Muchsin Ridjan, stressed that technology is not meant to replace artisans but to enhance productivity while preserving cultural value.

“Technology should strengthen craftsmen’s skills, not diminish creativity,” he said, Tuesday, September 15, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

The theme underscores how innovation now permeates every stage of the industry, from materials and design to digital trade and global market access. Muchsin emphasized the role of youth entrepreneurs, encouraging them to harness technology to create innovative, efficient, and culturally rooted products.

The Technocraft concept integrates technology into material development, production, design, marketing, and product innovation, ensuring tradition and local wisdom remain central.

INACRAFT Project Officer Syamsul Huda noted that the theme responds to rapid technological change impacting Indonesia’s craft sector. Examples include using palm waste for batik wax, modernizing weaving processes, and advancing ceramic and wood treatment.

These innovations aim to boost efficiency and value without erasing traditional skills.

To strengthen research and innovation, ASEPHI is collaborating with the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), the Indonesia Competent National Movement (GNIK), and leading universities such as Universitas Indonesia (UI) and the Indonesian Institute of the Arts (ISI). The partnerships will connect industry needs with research capacity and human resource development.

INACRAFT 2026 will feature around 900 participants, including businesses from across Indonesia, local administrations, state‑owned enterprises, and industry partners.

The exhibition will serve as a meeting ground for entrepreneurs, buyers, distributors, and stakeholders, with business interactions expected to evolve into long‑term cooperation, distribution networks, and new market access. ***