Why Indonesia Should Set the Standard for Global Modest Fashion

Indonesia is strategically positioning itself to set a new global standard for modest fashion, aiming to become the leading hub for the Muslim fashion industry and the broader halal market. With substantial government backing and comprehensive strategic initiatives, Indonesia is committed to enhancing its global market presence and competitiveness. This concerted effort is designed to elevate the nation’s status in the global modest fashion arena, reflecting Indonesia’s ambition and potential to lead in this rapidly growing industry.

Establishing a Benchmark for Global Modest Fashion

Tjoki Aprianda Siregar from Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the need for Indonesia to establish itself as the benchmark for modest fashion. By creating standardized guidelines, Indonesia can ensure that other countries producing modest fashion follow its lead. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the global competitiveness of Indonesia’s fashion industry, projected to reach a market value of $428 billion by 2027.

Expanding Market Intelligence

To achieve this goal, Indonesian stakeholders must optimize market intelligence. Understanding the global market, particularly the primary importers of Indonesia’s modest fashion products, will enable better strategic decisions. Additionally, sourcing high-quality, affordable cotton will help Indonesian manufacturers produce competitively priced modest fashion items.

Growing International Demand

The appeal of modest fashion is not confined to Muslim-majority countries. There is growing interest among European consumers in clothing that provides more coverage, reflecting a broader trend towards modest fashion globally. This shift presents a significant opportunity for Indonesia to expand its market reach.

Government and Stakeholder Support

The Indonesian government, alongside various stakeholders, is committed to developing a robust modest fashion ecosystem. Fixy, Assistant for Partnership and Market Expansion at the Ministry of Cooperatives and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) highlighted the importance of preparing a comprehensive master plan for modest fashion development. This includes organizing regular fashion events and establishing a presidential regulation to provide a legal framework for the industry.

Promoting Indonesian Fashion Globally

Efforts to promote Indonesian modest fashion on the international stage are already underway. Indonesia is actively participating in major fashion events such as New York Fashion Week, Paris Fashion Week, and Jakarta Muslim Fashion Week. These events provide a platform to showcase the unique qualities of Indonesian modest fashion, which often incorporates traditional fabrics and designs, such as batik and tenon.

Economic Impact

According to data from the Central Statistical Agency (BPS), Indonesia ranked 13th globally in modest fashion exports in 2021, with exports worth $4.68 billion. The modest fashion sector contributed 3.5% to Indonesia’s total non-oil and gas exports. With continued government support and strategic initiatives, Indonesia aims to climb higher in these rankings.

Looking ahead, Indonesia’s modest fashion industry is expected to grow significantly. The global market for modest fashion is projected to reach $311 billion by 2024, providing ample opportunities for Indonesian designers and manufacturers to make their mark. Initiatives like the Indonesia Modest Fashion Week and the International Modest Fashion Festival are crucial in driving this growth.

By establishing global standards and capitalizing on its rich cultural heritage, Indonesia is set to become a powerhouse in the modest fashion industry. This strategic focus not only boosts Indonesia’s economic growth but also showcases its cultural and fashion heritage on an international platform. Embracing traditional fabrics like batik and tenun, Indonesia’s unique approach to modest fashion positions it as a leader, ready to influence and inspire the global market. This comprehensive strategy underscores Indonesia’s commitment to innovation, cultural preservation, and economic advancement in the global modest fashion arena. Republika.