The Local Market, a beloved exhibition and bazaar championing homegrown brands, marked a milestone with its 20th edition at Urban Forest, Cipete, from February 7 to 9, 2025. More than just a marketplace, this event reaffirmed its role as a vibrant hub for local entrepreneurs, cultural appreciation, and creative collaboration.

A Platform for Growth and Connection
This year’s edition saw an impressive turnout, with visitors immersing themselves in a curated selection of 127 local brands spanning fashion, handmade crafts, and culinary delights. More than a shopping experience, The Local Market provided a space for brand owners to connect directly with customers, sharing the stories, values, and craftsmanship behind their products.

Founder of The Local Market and Ku Ka, Titonius Karto, emphasized the importance of fostering appreciation for local brands. “The strength of Indonesian local brands lies in their values and stories. The Local Market is more than just an event—it’s a movement to elevate and celebrate these brands while creating meaningful connections,” he said.

Cultural Heritage Takes Center Stage
One of the standout elements of this edition was the integration of traditional Indonesian art into the event’s programming. Visitors were captivated by a special performance of Lakon Sumpah Pemuda, a masterpiece by Suar Sanubari, presented by Sanggar Budaya Widya Pramana Yogyakarta. This theatrical retelling of Indonesia’s journey toward unity blended visual projections, shadow puppetry, and wayang orang, creating a mesmerizing cultural experience.

The performance not only enriched the event but also underscored The Local Market’s commitment to preserving and promoting Indonesia’s rich artistic heritage. By merging modern entrepreneurship with traditional storytelling, the event bridged the gap between generations and reinforced the significance of cultural identity in contemporary creative industries.

Strategic Partnership for SME Empowerment
A key highlight of the 20th edition was its collaboration with Octo Mobile by CIMB Niaga. With a shared vision of empowering small and medium enterprises (SMEs), this partnership provided valuable opportunities for business owners to access financial tools and expand their reach. By facilitating seamless transactions and offering exposure to a broader audience, The Local Market continues to play an instrumental role in fostering sustainable growth for local entrepreneurs.

A Celebration of Music, Art, and Community
Beyond shopping and business networking, The Local Market featured live performances by talented local musicians, enhancing the festive atmosphere. Visitors strolled through the lush surroundings of Urban Forest, Cipete, indulging in artisanal delicacies and engaging with Indonesia’s thriving creative scene.

Since its inception in 2017, The Local Market has evolved into a movement that nurtures entrepreneurship, promotes local craftsmanship, and strengthens consumer trust in Indonesian products. As it closes this milestone edition, the event’s impact extends far beyond sales—it continues to shape a supportive ecosystem where creativity, culture, and commerce thrive together.

With its growing influence and unwavering commitment to quality, The Local Market is poised to inspire and empower even more local brands in the years to come. One thing is certain—this is just the beginning of an even brighter future for Indonesia’s creative industry.