Roosters are ready to crow

Chinese New Year is coming, and the roosters are ready to crow on the dawn of Feb. 9, 2005.

Chinese Jakartans have been preparing for family gatherings at home.

Although some Chinese Indonesian community leaders have requested that people celebrate this new year in a modest manner -- out of respect for the tsunami victims -- they also say that there is no harm in decorating your house with a red lantern or two.

A Two acrobats, originally from China, show off their skills at the Mega Bekasi Hypermall in West Java as part of celebrations for the Year of the Rooster.

B Many stores in Jakarta are selling Chinese New Year decorations and foodstuffs, such as red lanterns and Chinese sweet cake made from sticky rice and sugar palm, in the days before the beginning of the Year of the Rooster, which this year falls on Feb. 9, 2005.

C&F The ambience of upcoming Chinese New Year is palpable in Jakarta's Chinatown of Glodok, West Jakarta. Residents have adorned the neighborhood with red lanterns and other Chinese decorations.

D A Chinese Indonesian family lights incense in preparation for prayers. Prior to the Chinese New Year many Buddhists and Confucians come to temples to pray for a better life in the upcoming year.

E Emir, who works at the Batra Bakti Temple in Ancol, North Jakarta, paints a dragon on a giant candle.