Culinary entrepreneurs, Indonesian diaspora members and creative economy practitioners discussed cultural promotion and business opportunities in Singapore.
The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Singapore, in collaboration with Gerakan Ekonomi Kreatif Nasional (GEKRAFS) Singapore, held Indonesian Culinary Diplomacy on Saturday, 17 October 2026, at the Nusantara Room of the Indonesian Embassy. Organised to commemorate National Creative Economy Day (Hekrafnas), the event explored how Indonesian cuisine could showcase the country’s cultural heritage and create opportunities for culinary businesses in Singapore.
The discussion brought together culinary entrepreneurs, members of the Indonesian diaspora and creative economy practitioners. Participants exchanged perspectives on the appeal of Indonesian food among Singaporean consumers, business development opportunities, professional networking and market access for Indonesian culinary products.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Thomas Ardian Siregar, Deputy Chief of Mission of the Republic of Indonesia in Singapore, highlighted the role of cuisine in introducing Indonesian culture and strengthening people-to-people relations between Indonesia and Singapore.
Three speakers shared their professional experiences and perspectives on the Singapore market. Ogy, Creative Director of Suave Cartel Media and an Indonesian food enthusiast based in Singapore, discussed the appeal of Indonesian cuisine among local consumers.
Ms. Irna, representing Irna Taste, shared her experience developing an Indonesian culinary business in Singapore, including the sale of martabak. Her contribution offered practical insights into the opportunities and considerations involved in bringing Indonesian food products to the Singapore market.
Mr. Haris Ahmad, President of Rasa Indonesia and an Indonesian restaurant entrepreneur in Singapore, discussed the opportunities and challenges involved in developing Indonesian cuisine for international markets.
The Embassy and GEKRAFS Singapore expressed the hope that the initiative would lead to further activities, including culinary product promotion, stronger business networks, knowledge exchange and exploration of market access for Indonesian creative economy products.
Through engagement among government representatives, community organisations and business practitioners, Indonesian Culinary Diplomacy provided a platform to promote Indonesian culinary heritage, support creative economy development and strengthen cultural ties between Indonesia and Singapore.
