President Prabowo: Chinese New Year 2026 as Momentum to Strengthen National Unity
President Prabowo Subianto formally conveyed New Year greetings for Chinese New Year 2577, Year of the Fire Horse, to the entire ethnic Chinese community across the nation. In his remarks, Prabowo emphasised that Imlek is not merely a religious celebration, but an important momentum to strengthen brotherhood and national unity.
Prabowo highlighted this year’s “Harmoni Imlek Nusantara” (Harmony of Chinese New Year Archipelago) theme as a reflection of Indonesia’s national identity, which is great because of its diversity and strong because of its togetherness.
“Imlek Festival 2026 is a celebration that affirms that Indonesia is not built by a single ethnic group or a single faction alone, but by all the nation’s children,” said Prabowo through a video broadcast at the Harmoni Imlek Nusantara event at Lapangan Banteng, Central Jakarta, Saturday (28 February).
Prabowo made special mention of this year’s celebration, which coincides with the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. According to him, this phenomenon demonstrates Indonesia’s true character, which remains harmonious and unified despite stark differences.
“Imlek is presented alongside the holy month of Ramadan for the Islamic community. This is Indonesia’s true face. Different yet harmonious, diverse yet one goal. A great nation is not afraid of differences; a great nation indeed nurtures difference as strength,” he asserted.
Prabowo also appreciated the organisation of Imlek Festival 2026, which took place simultaneously across major cities, ranging from Medan, Palembang, Batam, Semarang, Singkawang, to Manado. For him, the widespread celebrations across the nation are concrete evidence that Indonesian unity is not merely a slogan but a living reality amongst the people.
Furthermore, Prabowo invited all Indonesians to welcome the Year of the Fire Horse with full optimism and courage. He hoped that the energy of this new year would bring strong determination to realise an Indonesia that is just, prosperous, and dignified.
“I hope this New Year of the Fire Horse brings blessings, health, peace, and new hope for us all. Gong Xi Fa Cai. May fortune and happiness accompany us all,” he concluded.