RRI.CO.ID, Yogyakarta - This year's Chinese New Year celebration in Yogyakarta has a different feel. The Pekan Budaya Tionghoa Yogyakarta (Yogyakarta Chinese Cultural Week, or PBTY), held at Kampung Ketandan in Malioboro from February 25 to March 3, 2026, serves as both a space for cultural expression and a platform for tolerance, as it coincides with the month of Ramadan.

"This year's PBTY, the 21st, carries the theme 'Cultural Heritage, National Strength', as an effort to strengthen brotherhood across ethnicities and religions," said Jimmy Sutanto, Chairman of the 21st PBTY 2026 Committee, in Yogyakarta on Friday, February 27, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

According to Sutanto, the event, which has been held for two decades, presents unique challenges due to its coinciding with Ramadan. "This year, it coincides with the fasting month, so we must respect certain times, such as when breaking the fast and during Tarawih prayers. All art performances begin at 8 p.m. as a sign of respect for Muslims performing their prayers."

He explained that the theme "Cultural Heritage, National Strength" conveys the message that cultural values passed down across generations are not merely relics of the past, but rather an important foundation for shaping identity, strengthening unity, and driving national progress.

"During the event, the committee also arranged culinary zones by separating halal and non-halal food stalls. Halal and general food areas are located on the west to north sides of the area, while non-halal stalls are located on the south side. This layout is intended to prevent unwanted incidents and ensure visitors comfort," he said.

A total of 172 MSME stalls participated in PBTY XXI, selected from more than 300 applicants. The high level of vendor enthusiasm demonstrates that PBTY is not only a cultural celebration but also a driver of the people's economy. In previous events, the number of visitors reached around 8,000 to 10,000 people.

"The committee hopes that public interest will not wane even though it coincides with Ramadan. In fact, people might come before sunset to buy takjil (snacks) while waiting for the breaking of the fast at Kampung Ketandan," he said.

Jimmy expressed his hope that through PBTY, a sense of brotherhood among residents will increase, so that differences in religion and class become no barriers. "Jogja is a city of tolerance," he said.

One lion dance equipment vendor, Rusmadi (45), said he regularly participates in PBTY every year. "I often sell at PBTY events. They're well-known for being there every year. After I sell at the Solo Chinese New Year event, I'll definitely come to Yogyakarta," he said.

In addition to the culinary bazaar, PBTY XXI features a variety of performances, including wayang potehi, traditional dance, and a lion dance. This combination demonstrates how Chinese traditions have grown alongside local culture.

For Amelia (22), a first-time visitor, the main attraction was the lion dance performance, which she wanted to see live. She also took the opportunity to hunt for snacks. Experiences like these demonstrate that PBTY is not just an ethnic festival but also a space where the younger generation can encounter diversity. ***