Kenneth of DKI Jakarta Council: Lunar New Year 2026 a Momentum to Strengthen Harmony and Unity in Jakarta
A member of the DKI Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) from the PDI Perjuangan faction, Hardiyanto Kenneth, extended his greetings for Lunar New Year 2577 Kongzili to all ethnic Chinese citizens celebrating the occasion, particularly in DKI Jakarta. He emphasised that the Lunar New Year celebration is not merely an annual tradition but should also serve as a momentum to strengthen togetherness and harmony amidst the diversity of the capital city.
“On the occasion of Lunar New Year 2577 Kongzili in 2026, I extend my congratulations to all Chinese citizens in Jakarta and wherever they may be. Gong Xi Fa Cai, Xin Nian Khuai Le. May this new year bring blessings, health, peace and prosperity for us all,” Kenneth said in a statement on Monday (16/2/2026).
According to Bang Kent — as Hardiyanto Kenneth is affectionately known — the Lunar New Year is not merely a change of year in the lunar calendar. Beyond that, the celebration is imbued with virtuous values such as hard work, perseverance, respect for elders, and the spirit of mutual cooperation that remain relevant in community life.
“These values are universal and serve as an important foundation in building DKI Jakarta as an inclusive and equitable global city,” said the member of Commission C of the DKI Jakarta DPRD.
Kent added that DKI Jakarta has long been known as a great home for diversity. From historic areas such as Glodok to modern economic centres, the contributions of the ethnic Chinese community have become an inseparable part of the capital city’s long journey.
He noted that the cultural heritage, traditions, culinary arts, and entrepreneurial spirit of the ethnic Chinese community have enriched Jakarta’s identity as a dynamic and multicultural city.
“The spirit of the Lunar New Year teaches us about the importance of harmony. In the diversity of ethnicities, religions, races and cultures, DKI Jakarta proves that differences are not barriers but strengths. From these differences are born creativity, innovation and social solidarity,” said the Chairman of IKAL (Alumni Family Association of the National Resilience Institute) PPRA Class LXII.
As a people’s representative in Kebon Sirih, Kent affirmed his commitment to continue pushing for policies that guarantee equality, protection of rights, and space for cultural expression for all members of society without exception.
He also observed that the Lunar New Year celebration, which can now be observed openly and festively, serves as proof of the nation’s maturity in nurturing diversity.
The Head of the Disaster Management Agency (BAGUNA) of PDI Perjuangan DKI Jakarta called on all elements of society to make the 2026 Lunar New Year a momentum to strengthen unity and increase tangible contributions to the development of DKI Jakarta.
“Amidst global economic challenges and ever-evolving social dynamics, we need optimism, solidarity and collective effort. I pray that every family is granted happiness, every endeavour is given success, and every step in the development of Jakarta is underpinned by the spirit of togetherness,” he concluded.