Shops deserted after 'Imlek'

JAMBI: Shops and markets in Jambi were relatively deserted on Saturday, two days after Imlek (Chinese New Year), because the shop owners were still celebrating.

Some still opened their shops, though, but only for half a day.

Ethnic Chinese celebrated the holiday by visiting their families and relatives in town.

Most, including electronics trader Apo, alias Hendra, acknowledged that they were very glad the government had declared Imlek a national holiday, as it meant that it honored the existence of those of Chinese descent in Indonesia. Chinese- Indonesians are in the minority but are influential in business. -- Antara