Jakarta (ANTARA) - Speaker of the House of Representatives (DPR) Puan Maharani encouraged Indonesians to use Chinese New Year 2576 Kongzili as an opportunity to strengthen tolerance and brotherhood amid ethnic and religious diversity.

In a statement cited here on Wednesday, Maharani emphasized that fostering solidarity and togetherness is crucial for Indonesians, who represent a diverse nation, in order to bolster their national integrity.

"Through solidarity, cooperation, and togetherness, we can overcome challenges and build a brighter future for all Indonesians," she affirmed.

She expressed confidence that Chinese New Year serves as a source of inspiration for self-improvement and greater empathy within society.

Maharani highlighted Indonesia’s national motto, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (Unity in Diversity), which has enabled the nation to thrive despite differences in ethnicity, culture, and religion.

"This motto reflects the existence of Indonesia as a single nation united amid diversity," she emphasized.

She also noted that since Indonesia’s founding, the government has recognized the importance of preserving diversity, citing Government Decree No. 2/OEM-1946 on religious holidays issued by Indonesia's first president, Soekarno.

Furthermore, in 2002, Megawati Soekarnoputri, the fifth president, issued a decree designating Chinese New Year as a national holiday.

"Happy Lunar New Year 2576 Kongzili to Chinese and Confucian communities. Let us welcome this Year of the Wood Snake with a determination for growth and development. Hopefully, all our wishes will come true this year," she stated.

The parliamentarian also expressed hope that the new year would usher in prosperity for all citizens.

Related news: VP highlights significance of people-oriented economy

Related news: Chinese New Year, Cap Go Meh draw tourists to Pontianak

Related news: Some 1.5 mln vehicles projected leaving Jabodetabek on long weekend

Translator: Melalusa S, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Primayanti
Copyright © ANTARA 2025