RRI.CO.ID, Semarang - The Chinese Consulate General in Surabaya, East Java, joined the vibrant Lunar New Year festivities at Sam Poo Kong Temple in Semarang, Central Java, through the event “Imlek Vaganza Harmoni Nusantara" on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

The participation underscored the growing cultural connection between Indonesia and China, as well as the spirit of inclusivity reflected in the nationwide celebrations.

Consul General Ye Su, who attended the event on Sunday, observed the strong enthusiasm of Indonesians for Lunar New Year. “The joy of Imlek is evident across many regions in Indonesia, including here at Sam Poo Kong,” he said. Imlek is the locally popular term for Lunar New Year in Indonesia.

He noted that the celebration has reached a national level, symbolizing Indonesia’s high degree of religious tolerance, and expressed hope that it will further strengthen bilateral relations.

Beyond the temple visit, Ye Su also planned to tour a trilingual school and meet with Chinese Indonesian communities in Semarang. The consulate provided on-site consular services, including document assistance and protection, while engaging visitors with souvenirs such as dolls, T-shirts, and pins for those who answered quiz questions.

Adding a cultural highlight, Ye Su personally wrote the Chinese character Fu - representing luck, happiness, and blessings - to share with visitors.

Sam Poo Kong Foundation Chairman Mulyadi Setiakusuma welcomed the consul general’s presence, calling it a gesture of goodwill. “This is cooperation in action. Sharing is not about the amount or value, but about the sincerity behind it for the benefit of the people,” he said.

He also encouraged Chinese companies in Kendal and Batang, Central Java, to contribute corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs for Semarang residents.

To enliven the Imlek Vaganza Harmoni Nusantara, the foundation offered free entry to visitors starting at 6 p.m. The evening program featured performances by Krisdayanti and Clarissa Dewi, along with a spectacular lion dance illuminated by 1,000 LEDs, an annual highlight of the celebration. ***