President's Message at Harmoni Imlek Nusantara: More Than a Religious Celebration
Jakarta — President Prabowo Subianto stated that the 2026 Imlek celebration reflects Indonesia’s strength as a great and diverse nation united in solidarity. The message was delivered via video address at the peak of the Harmoni Imlek Nusantara celebration marking the Chinese New Year 2577 (Kongzili) at Lapangan Banteng in Jakarta on Saturday evening, 28 February 2026.
The President conveyed that this year’s Imlek carries profound national significance as it is celebrated in the spirit of brotherhood and togetherness. The celebrations taking place across various regions also demonstrate the harmony thriving throughout the Indonesian archipelago.
“Chinese New Year is not merely a religious celebration. Imlek is a moment of national identity, brotherhood, and unity,” Prabowo stated in the video address.
He explained that the Harmoni Imlek Nusantara theme reflects Indonesia’s identity as a great nation because of its diversity, strong because of its unity, and steadfast because of its togetherness. The celebration not only showcases tradition and culture but also affirms the values of mutual aid, solidarity, and humanity.
According to the President, the 2026 Imlek Festival affirms that Indonesia is built by all citizens from various backgrounds. This year’s occasion was deemed particularly special as it coincides with the holy month of Ramadan.
“This is the true face of Indonesia. Different yet harmonious. Diverse yet united in purpose,” stated the nation’s leader.
Prabowo emphasised that a great nation does not fear differences but nurtures them as strength. The hosting of Imlek celebrations across various cities including Medan, Palembang, Batam, Bogor, Semarang, Solo, Surabaya, Pontianak, Singkawang, Makassar, and Manado serves as evidence of tangible unity.
He assessed that the harmony built across various regions demonstrates that unity is not merely a slogan but a living reality within society. This togetherness represents vital capital in building the nation’s future.
“This harmony thrives throughout the archipelago. This is proof that Indonesian unity is not merely a slogan; Indonesian unity is a reality,” stated President Prabowo.
The head of state also called upon the public to welcome the Year of the Fire Horse with optimism, courage, and determination to make Indonesia a just, prosperous, and dignified nation. He hoped the new year would bring blessings, progress, health, and peace to all citizens.
The Harmoni Imlek Nusantara celebration was held simultaneously across various regions as a space for togetherness transcending ethnicity, religion, and culture. This occasion is expected to strengthen the spirit of national unity amid diversity.