Singkawang Ready to Showcase 727 Tatung Performers as Cap Go Meh Meets Ramadan

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Singkawang, West Kalimantan, is preparing for one of Indonesia’s most anticipated cultural celebrations, the Cap Go Meh Festival, with 727 Tatung performers confirmed to take part on Tuesday, March 3. The large turnout underscores the city’s reputation as a center of tradition and cultural diversity.

Festival Organizing Committee Chair Bun Cin Thong detailed the composition of participants: 523 Tatung with palanquins, 108 without palanquins, 75 miniature Tatung, 15 jelangkung (Indonesian folk ritual), three dragon groups, two lion dance troupes, and one walking contingent.

He emphasized that the strong participation reflects the community’s enthusiasm for preserving a tradition that has become a defining identity of Singkawang.

The city’s Tourism, Youth, and Sports Agency has issued 736 invitations to national officials and prominent figures, with 102 already confirming attendance.

Invitees include the People’s Consultative Assembly speaker, the Regional Representative Council speaker, Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, Minister of Home Affairs, Minister of Housing and Settlements, and the Deputy Minister of Creative Economy.

Regional leaders such as the Governors of West Kalimantan and North Maluku, representatives from the Audit Board (BPK), and Secretary of the National Border Management Agency (BNPP) are also expected. Foreign dignitaries, including the Chinese Ambassador to Indonesia, will join national figures such as Oesman Sapta Odang.

Singkawang Mayor Tjhai Chui Mie stressed that Cap Go Meh is more than an annual event; it is a cultural heritage rooted in tradition and nurtured by the city’s diversity.

“The festival symbolizes harmony among religions and ethnic groups in Singkawang. It shows the world how our community lives peacefully, with mutual respect and support,” she said.

This year’s celebration carries added significance as it coincides with the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. Local authorities, the Cap Go Meh Committee, and the Ramadan Fair Committee are collaborating to decorate and enliven the city together, a gesture that highlights tolerance and unity. “The world can see that peace is beautiful, uplifting, and joyful,” the mayor added.

The Singkawang city administration is also strengthening promotional efforts to broaden the festival’s reach and attract more domestic and international visitors. “With wider promotion, Cap Go Meh can become one of the most anticipated annual events, further establishing Singkawang as a leading destination for cultural tourism,” she said. ***