Mas Gembol, Si Menteri Desain: Pejabat Bukan Penjahat

Mas Gembol, Si Menteri Desain: Pejabat Bukan Penjahat is a creative work by the Indonesian animator and designer Wahyu Aditya. Published as part of his efforts to inject humor and contemporary design sensibilities into local discourse, the book centers on the character Mas Gembol, who navigates the bureaucratic and creative challenges of governance. It emerged during a period in Indonesian media where creators were increasingly using graphic storytelling to critique or playfully reframe the roles of public officials, aiming to make complex political concepts more accessible to a youth audience.

The design of the volume reflects Wahyu Aditya’s signature style, characterized by clean, vibrant lines and expressive character work influenced by modern animation aesthetics. By positioning a 'Minister of Design' as a protagonist, the work serves as both an entertaining narrative and a gentle provocation regarding the importance of creative thinking in public policy. It was received as a lighthearted commentary on the intersection of professional design and the often-rigid environment of Indonesian bureaucracy, finding a niche among readers interested in local pop culture and illustration.