Office District Transformed into Hub of Sino-Betawi Cultural Fusion to Celebrate Lunar New Year
Plaza Asia has undertaken an innovative approach to the 2026 Lunar New Year celebration by blending Sino-Chinese and Betawi cultural fusion within Jakarta’s collective framework. The Office Board and Supervisory Board of Plaza Asia has responded to the directive from Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung, who has called for buildings along Jalan Sudirman to participate in the Lunar New Year Decoration Competition.
Beyond merely displaying decorations, the office district has been transformed into an epicentre of culture, featuring thematic lion dance performances and the presence of live horses at the event.
This celebration embodies the spirit of “Jakarta Melting Pot,” an initiative by Jakarta’s Governor symbolising diversity and harmony between Sino-Chinese and Betawi cultures in the capital.
This year’s Lunar New Year celebration marks a historic milestone. For the first time in the 20 years since the association was established, the Lunar New Year is being celebrated on a massive scale, with unit owners directly participating in a festive lion dance parade.
The Plaza Asia Lunar New Year festivities also represent a positive response to guidance from the Jakarta Provincial Tourism and Creative Economy Office (Parekraf). Through participation in the Lunar New Year Decoration Competition, Plaza Asia contributes to the beautification programme and enhancement of Jakarta’s pedestrian aesthetics.
Beyond beautifying the city, this initiative aims to strengthen narratives of tolerance, reinforce Jakarta’s image as a modern cultural tourism destination, and create inclusive public spaces for various ethnic groups and traditions coexisting harmoniously.
The culmination of the celebration is marked by a stunning lion dance parade and the execution of the Thiam Ceremony, led by Eva Monalisa, a Member of Commission VII of the Indonesian House of Representatives and Chair of the Indonesian Tourism Promoters Association. The Thiam Barongsai Ceremony is conducted solemnly as a symbol of ‘Welcome Good Fortune’ and protection throughout the 12-month period for all Plaza Asia residents.
Unlike typical performances, the Lion Dance attraction this time is packaged with a storytelling concept titled “Asian Lion.” The Asian Lion is portrayed as an envoy from four directional guardians of Plaza Asia, tasked with circling the city and spreading dance as a symbol of protection, prosperity, and blessing for all Jakarta residents.
“Residents’ enthusiasm has been extraordinary, marking a new breakthrough for us. We want to present a celebration that is not only festive but also meaningful and strengthens unity. The presence of live horses at this event symbolises spirit, courage, energy, and a new breakthrough entering the Year of the Horse 2026,” said Event Chairman Evie Irawan in a statement on Friday (27/2/2026).
Irawan stated that through this historic celebration, Plaza Asia’s Board of Directors reaffirms its commitment to continue supporting cultural programmes that strengthen brotherhood, aligned with Jakarta’s vision as a global city that remains deeply rooted in traditional values.