RRI.CO.ID, Yogyakarta - Yogyakarta’s Kampoeng Ketandan village was alive with energy on Friday, February 27, 2026, as the 21st Yogyakarta Chinese Culture Week (PBTY) unfolded in the midst of the holy month of Ramadan. The convergence of cultural celebration and spiritual devotion offered a vivid portrait of the city’s enduring spirit of tolerance.

Carrying the theme “Cultural Heritage, National Strength,” the event blended religious and cultural traditions. Visitors were treated to takjil (snacks for breaking the fast) and tausiah (Islamic sermons), alongside Wayang Potehi puppet performances, art exhibitions, and culinary showcases.

The atmosphere reflected both festivity and reflection, underscoring how the week-long event -- running from February 25 to March 3 -- has become a symbol of harmony in Yogyakarta.

One of the most memorable moments came during a spiritual session led by cleric Gus Muwafiq. As crowds gathered in the late afternoon for ngabuburit -- the hours before iftar -- his sermon emphasized fasting as a universal discipline shared across faiths.

“Fasting must be rejoiced in by everyone,” he told the audience. “Almost all religions have lessons on fasting, and the formula is the same: not eating, not drinking, and not indulging in worldly desires.”

His presence at the cultural festival highlighted Yogyakarta’s reputation as a city of inclusivity and mutual respect.

The day also featured a culinary spectacle. Chef Tino Itamae of Izakaya restaurant presented a live tuna-cutting demonstration, preparing a 79-kilogram Bluefin tuna sourced from Bali’s southern waters.

With precision, he showcased prized cuts such as Otoro -- the fatty belly often dubbed the “Wagyu of the sea” -- and Kamatoro from the jaw.

“My purpose in bringing this massive fish here is to introduce the artistry of authentic Japanese cuisine to the festival visitors,” he explained, turning the demonstration into both education and entertainment.

Looking ahead, the excitement continues with the Malioboro Imlek Carnival on Saturday, February 28, from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. local time. The parade will feature Barongsai and Liong performances, textile and craft displays, and a procession along Jl. Malioboro to the city’s Ground Zero.

Chairman of the event's organizing committee,Jimmy Sutanto, noted that the festival has grown over two decades into a celebration of unity. “During the carnival, the public can witness iconic performances alongside a parade showcasing the fusion of arts,” he said.

Beyond the stage, the festival also hosts a culinary bazaar, with 120 MSMEs participating throughout the week.

As the festival enters its peak, Yogyakarta once again demonstrates how cultural heritage and spiritual devotion can coexist, offering a living example of harmony in diversity. ***