January 29, 2025 | 11:21 am
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar, extended heartfelt greetings to Confucianists and all those celebrating the auspicious occasion of the 2576th year of the Chinese Lunar Calendar (Kongzili). He urged everyone to embrace this Chinese New Year as an opportunity for personal growth, introspection, and a renewed commitment to contributing to the nation's progress. “May this joyous occasion bring an end to all challenges,” he warmly expressed in a written statement released by the Ministry of Religion on Tuesday, January 28, 2025.
The theme of this year's national Chinese New Year celebration, “The Righteous Behavior of Leaders Will Straighten the Hearts of All People,” carries a profound message. Nasaruddin emphasized that this theme serves as a reminder for all citizens of the importance of integrity and exemplary conduct.
He invited all religious communities to diligently practice the teachings of their respective faiths. The Minister expressed optimism that by diligently adhering to their religious principles, Indonesia will flourish with increased peace and prosperity.
“All religions share numerous similarities, making it increasingly difficult to identify differences between them,” the Minister of Religion stated. “The greater the piety of a religious community, the greater the harmony and peace it will achieve.”
Preparations for the Chinese New Year festivities have been underway since the previous day, with Confucianists and celebrants engaging in prayer rituals at various temples. At the Dharma Bakti Temple complex in Grogol, West Jakarta, for instance, temple administrators were diligently arranging offerings for the deities, including traditional delicacies such as kue keranjang or basket cake and an assortment of fruits.
Mamat, a temple worker, noted a significant increase in the number of devotees expected to offer prayers and incense during the upcoming celebrations. “We anticipate a larger turnout tonight, with devotees queuing to offer their prayers,” he remarked while speaking at the Dharma Bakti Temple complex on Tuesday, January 28, 2025.
The Dharma Bakti Temple complex remained open around the clock yesterday to accommodate the influx of worshippers.
In addition to the religious rituals, vibrant cultural performances added to the festive atmosphere. A lion dance performance entertained visitors at the National Monument or Monas area in Central Jakarta on Tuesday. Spectators gathered excitedly around the stage near the west side of the Monas Fountain to witness the lively attraction.
Andi Adam and Anastasya Lavenia contributed to the writing of this article.
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