Aceh Takes Center Stage at KKI 2026 as Dekranasda Backs UMKM Expansion

BANDA ACEH | INDATANEWS.COM - The Chairwoman of the Aceh Regional Handicraft Development Committee (Dekranasda), Marlina Muzakir, has welcomed Bank Indonesia's initiative to position Aceh as the central theme of Karya Kreatif Indonesia (KKI) 2026, highlighting it as a major opportunity for local creative industries.

Marlina expressed her appreciation during an official audience with the Head of Bank Indonesia Representative Office in Aceh, Agus Chusaini, held at the Meuligoe Gubernur Aceh reception hall on Monday, June 15, 2026. The meeting served as a strategic forum to strengthen collaboration between the regional government and the central bank in advancing the creative economy, particularly in supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs/UMKM).

Strategic Push for Local Creative Industries

Marlina emphasized that Aceh being chosen as the focal theme of KKI 2026 represents a significant opportunity for local artisans and entrepreneurs to expand their market reach nationally and internationally.

She noted that the event will serve as a strategic platform to promote a wide range of regional products, from culinary specialties to traditional textiles (Wastra).

"We highly appreciate Bank Indonesia's initiative to highlight Aceh as the central theme of KKI 2026 this coming August. This is an excellent opportunity to introduce Aceh's products, culinary diversity, and Wastra to a broader national audience," she said.

At the same time, she acknowledged that many UMKM actors in Aceh are still recovering from the hydrometeorological disaster at the end of 2025, which significantly disrupted production and sales activities.

Economic Recovery Through National Exposure

Marlina, also known as Kak Na, expressed optimism that KKI 2026 will provide new momentum for economic recovery, particularly for MSMEs and local artisans in Aceh.

"We are optimistic that KKI 2026 will bring renewed energy to the economy, especially for UMKM and craftsmen in Aceh," she added.

Bank Indonesia Highlights Expanded National Platform

Head of Bank Indonesia's Aceh Representative Office, Agus Chusaini, explained that KKI is an annual flagship event designed to showcase Indonesia's regional economic potential on a national stage.

The 2026 edition will be held at the Jakarta International Convention Center (JICC) and is expected to be officially opened by the Chairwoman of the National Dekranasda, Selvi Ananda Gibran Rakabuming.

Agus noted that more than 500 UMKM exhibitors from across Indonesia participated in the previous edition, with the 2026 event planned to expand into two exhibition halls to accommodate more participants.

Aceh Culture Set as Key Attraction

He further emphasized that Aceh's cultural identity will be strongly featured throughout the event, not only in booth designs but also in official attire worn by organizers.

"Since Aceh is chosen as the theme, the entire event concept will reflect that identity," Agus stated.

A major highlight will be a fashion showcase featuring around 40 Acehnese Wastra textiles, including Songket and handwoven fabrics.

Cultural Identity and Economic Recovery in Focus

Agus added that the thematic focus on Aceh also symbolizes solidarity following the natural disasters in late 2025 and is expected to support regional economic recovery efforts. (IDNC)

REPORTER: Adli Safwan | EDITOR: Fik Sagala

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