PBTY XXI Strengthens Cross-Ethnic and Religious Brotherhood
Yogyakarta – The annual Yogyakarta Chinese Cultural Week (PBTY) will return to Kampoeng Ketandan in Yogyakarta from 25 February to 3 March 2026 to celebrate the 2026 Lunar New Year.
“This year’s PBTY, the 21st edition, carries the theme ‘Cultural Heritage, National Strength’ as an effort to strengthen brotherhood across ethnic and religious lines,” said PBTY XXI 2026 Committee Chair Jimmy Sutanto in Yogyakarta on Friday.
According to him, the cultural agenda, which has run for two decades, faces particular challenges as it coincides with the month of Ramadan.
He stated that the theme of Cultural Heritage, National Strength conveys the message that cultural values passed down through generations are not merely remnants of the past, but rather an important foundation in forming national identity, strengthening unity, and promoting national progress.
“In its implementation, the committee is also arranging the culinary zone by separating halal and non-halal food stalls. Halal and general food areas are placed on the western to northern side of the venue, whilst non-halal stalls are on the southern side to prevent unwanted incidents and ensure visitors feel comfortable,” he said.
Jimmy stated that 172 micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) outlets are participating in PBTY XXI from more than 300 applicants. The high interest from traders demonstrates that PBTY is an eagerly anticipated event that generates economic impact.
“At last year’s event, the number of visitors reached approximately 8,000 to 10,000 people. The committee hopes public interest will not diminish despite it coinciding with Ramadan. In fact, people could also come before sunset to buy breaking fast food whilst engaging in the tradition of ngabuburit at Kampoeng Ketandan,” he said.
In addition to the food bazaar and MSMEs, PBTY XXI will also feature various art performances, including Wayang Potehi, traditional dances, lion dance performances, and a multi-cultural art stage.
Jimmy hopes that through PBTY, the sense of brotherhood among citizens will increase further, so that religious and factional differences do not become obstacles. “Jogja, city of tolerance,” he said.
Rusmadi (45), one of lion dance equipment traders, said he regularly participates in PBTY every year. “I’ve sold at PBTY events many times and it’s definitely already well-known as an annual event. So, after I sell at the Solo Imlek event, I definitely come to Yogyakarta afterwards,” he said.
Amelia (22), one of the visitors, said she visited PBTY for the first time after receiving information from friends.
“This is my first time visiting PBTY and I found out about it from my friend. The street food options here are very diverse, from trending snacks to Lunar New Year specialities. I’m also looking for breaking fast food, so I can do some additional food hunting at the same time,” she said.
She said her interest in the lion dance performance was one of the reasons she came to the event. “I really wanted to watch the lion dance in person. That’s one of the reasons that brought me here,” she said.