Fadli Says Cap Go Meh Celebration Is Proof of Indonesia's Cultural Harmony

In Jakarta, Culture Minister Fadli Zon said that Cap Go Meh celebrations are tangible proof of Indonesia’s cultural strength in safeguarding unity amid diversity. ‘This Cap Go Meh celebration is evidence that Indonesia, although we are different, still lives in harmony. Differences are not a threat, but rather what binds us together,’ the minister said in a press statement in Jakarta on Wednesday. He added that the 2026 BSF Cap Go Meh, held in rainy conditions and coinciding with the holy month of Ramadan, demonstrates the maturity of society in preserving tolerance. He emphasised that the spirit of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika must continue to be maintained as the foundation of national life. Cultural celebrations such as Cap Go Meh are hoped not only to strengthen national identity but also to spur the community’s economic growth and keep Indonesia safe and peaceful amid global dynamism. ‘Hopefully this Cap Go Meh celebration makes us stronger as a nation, our culture more advanced, our economy grow, and Indonesia always safe,’ he said. He added that art has the power to erase social barriers and bring shared happiness. ‘May this carnival reflect our spirit that art unites people. With art we live without caste, with art we live with a sense and happiness. May the rain this time be a sign of a blessing that will never end,’ he said. Historically, the Bogor Street Festival Cap Go Meh has been held for more than a decade and is one of West Java’s leading cultural programmes. This year, the festival emphasises participation by Bogor City communities by featuring traditional performances and cross-ethnic collaborations reflecting the acculturation of Chinese and Sundanese local cultures.