Jakarta (ANTARA) - Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji called for strengthening the national furniture and handicraft industry - particularly rattan-based enterprises - to boost the added value of natural resources and enhance competitiveness through stronger protection and support.
In a statement confirmed on Saturday, Sarmuji emphasized that Indonesia holds a comparative advantage in the rattan industry as it accounts for roughly 85 percent of the world's raw rattan supply.
"This advantage must be leveraged to bolster the national processing industry so that Indonesia transitions from a mere raw material supplier into a producer of high-value furniture and handicraft products," Sarmuji said at the Trade Expo Indonesia 2026 in Tangerang, Banten, on Wednesday (Oct. 14).
Meanwhile, General Chairman of the Indonesian Furniture and Handicraft Industry Association (HIMKI) Abdul Sobur stated that the country's raw rattan advantage must be turned into national industrial strength through integrated policies.
"That advantage must be transformed into manufacturing prowess, design, branding, and global market dominance. Therefore, the rattan industry needs dedicated protection and development so that the added value and job creation remain in Indonesia," he said.
According to Sobur, the furniture and handicraft sector plays a strategic role as it is rooted in local resources, involves numerous micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) alongside artisans, and creates a significant number of jobs.
Additionally, the sector maintains strong ties to various other industries, ranging from forestry and logistics to design, trade, and tourism.
Therefore, bolstering the furniture and handicraft industry is expected to deliver broader economic benefits.
HIMKI expressed hope that the government's support for the furniture and handicraft sector will be followed by concrete policies and a roadmap for developing the national rattan industry.
Sobur underscored that consistent support is needed so Indonesia can solidify its position as a global hub for rattan furniture and handicrafts.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Industry aims to make Indonesia a global manufacturing hub for furniture by strengthening sustainable timber downstreaming and boosting the country's industrial competitiveness.
The furniture and handicraft sector is also seen as playing a vital role in job creation and connecting with a global market with a value of over US$736.21 billion.
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Translator: Ahmad Muzdaffar, Raka Adji
Editor: Primayanti
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