Monkeying around in the spirit of renewal

The glorious color red reigned as Jakarta celebrated Chinese New Year, known locally as Imlek, to usher in the year of the monkey.

One of the most important of the Chinese customary festivals, Imlek, which fell on Jan. 22 this year, is celebrated in the first days of spring to signify renewal.

This year also marked the second time Imlek was designated a national holiday.

Across the city, many Jakartans, ethnic Chinese or not, got into the spirit of the celebration. They watched Chinese dance performances, joined Imlek-themed promotions at shopping centers and savored delicacies on the special day.

Hopefully, it will not prove merely another free-for-all celebration, but one which works to ensure greater harmony for all residents of the city.

-- Text and photos by R. Berto Wedhatama