WOODFEST 2025:
WOODFEST 2025 marks a significant milestone for the furniture, architecture, and interior design industries in Indonesia, especially in Central Java. This is the third event, following the previous ones in 2023 and 2024. This year, it is notably held at the Marina Convention Center, having moved from PIKA Semarang campus. This shift symbolizes a readiness for growth and aims to reach a broader audience in the industry, academia, and the general public. The new venue reinforces that WOODFEST has developed into a significant public platform within the national furniture industry.
Exhibitor participation has significantly increased, with over 30 brands showcased this year, including furniture manufacturers, interior contractors, and educational institutions focused on woodworking, interior design, and architecture. WOODFEST 2025 serves not only as an exhibition but also as a space for exchanging experiences, ideas, and innovations, promoting new collaborations that are expected to continue beyond the event.
Visitor enthusiasm reflects the strong appeal of the Indonesian wood and furniture industry. Over three days, more than 2,400 visitors attended, including industry players, academics, design and architecture communities, potential buyers, and members of the public interested in furniture as a lifestyle aspect. The turnout highlights Semarang’s potential as a key meeting point for the wood and creative design industries in Indonesia.
A major achievement of WOODFEST 2025 is the collaboration between PIKA alumni, part of KAPIKA, and current SMK PIKA students. The alumni organized the event in collaboration with students, offering hands-on learning opportunities. Students not only assisted in the event’s execution but also learned about designing, managing, and running an industry event through direct interaction with exhibitors and visitors. This experience offers valuable lessons that extend beyond classroom settings, showing that WOODFEST functions as an educational medium for value transfer and professional character development.
In addition to the exhibition, thematic seminars were a highlight, featuring speakers from the fields of architecture, interior design, export industries, and global wood policy analysis. Topics included sustainable wood materials, furniture design innovations, and discussions on international regulations such as EUDR, fostering awareness of the challenges and opportunities in the Indonesian furniture market.
WOODFEST 2025 also held special significance with the attendance of Father Benedictus Hari Juliawan, S. J., representing the Provincial of the Society of Jesus in Indonesia. His presence reflects the spiritual and historical roots of PIKA, emphasizing that success stems not just from technical skills but from character development and social contributions. Ultimately, WOODFEST 2025 celebrates wooden craftsmanship and embodies the spirit of service for the greater glory of God.
The success of WOODFEST 2025 is a source of gratitude and pride. The collaboration demonstrated the strength of community and continuity across generations. WOODFEST is just the beginning of a larger journey, with aspirations for continued growth and a lasting impact on education, industry, and society.
Contributor: Johanes Chaesario Octavianus
