MPR Deputy Speaker: Today's Lunar New Year Celebration Is a Symbol of Our Democratic Maturity

MPR Deputy Speaker from the National Mandate Party (PAN) faction, Eddy Soeparno, extended his congratulations to all Indonesians celebrating Lunar New Year 2577 Kongzili.

“Gong Xi Fa Cai! Happy Lunar New Year to our fellow countrymen who are celebrating. May this Year of the Fire Horse bring blessings, prosperity and good fortune to us all,” Eddy said in a statement on Tuesday (17 February 2026).

According to Eddy, Lunar New Year is both a cultural celebration and a reflection of Indonesia’s long journey in nurturing pluralism and championing the values of freedom and equality.

The University of Indonesia political science doctorate holder explained that Lunar New Year, now celebrated openly and recognised as a national holiday, is the product of the long struggle for reform.

“The 1998 reforms opened up space for civil liberties, restored cultural rights, and strengthened the state’s commitment to the principle of inclusivity. This demonstrates that Indonesia, as a great nation, is built upon respect for differences,” Eddy said.

“Today’s Lunar New Year celebration is a symbol of our democratic maturity. Indonesia continues to learn from history and chooses to affirm itself as a nation that values diversity, upholds tolerance, and provides equal space for all citizens regardless of their ethnic, religious or social background,” he continued.

The PAN deputy chairman expressed his hope that Lunar New Year would serve as a moment to strengthen unity amidst diversity. For Eddy, the unity of all citizens is vital capital amid global dynamics ranging from economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions to technological disruption.

Furthermore, Eddy emphasised that Indonesia is currently striving to achieve high economic growth targets. These targets reflect President Prabowo Subianto’s determination to create jobs, improve public welfare, and ensure equitable economic development for all.

“I believe President Prabowo’s target of achieving 8 per cent economic growth can be realised not only through hard work, but also through a sense of togetherness and solidarity among all citizens. This requires collaboration from all elements of the nation — government, the business community and civil society — in a shared spirit of realising prosperity and justice for all,” he concluded.