RRI.CO.ID, Yogyakarta - Crowds gathered along Yogyakarta’s landmark street, Jl. Malioboro, stretching to the city’s Ground Zero on Saturday night, February 28, 2026, as the Malioboro Imlek Carnival -- the main highlight of the 21st Yogyakarta Chinese Culture Week (PBTY) -- unfolded.

Despite persistent rain, youth-led performances carried on with discipline and artistry, underscoring a commitment to passing ancestral traditions to future generations. The carnival drew people from diverse backgrounds, reflecting Yogyakarta’s reputation as a “City of Tolerance”, where shared cultural pride continues to flourish.

Tandean Harry Setio, Chairman of the Jogja Chinese Art and Culture Centre (JCACC), described the festival as a vital “meeting space” that reinforces values of tolerance, harmony, and togetherness in Yogyakarta’s multicultural society.

With the 2026 theme “Cultural Heritage, National Strength”, the event seeks to strengthen Yogyakarta’s role as a model of inclusivity.

“As a miniature Indonesia, Yogyakarta must embody safety and harmony for all residents and visitors,” Tandean said, noting that the festival’s culinary and artistic offerings now belong to the wider community rather than any single group.

The Malioboro Imlek Carnival brought together 14 community associations under JCACC alongside local groups.

Performances included the Liong (Dragon) Dance) by the Budi Abadi Association (Hoo Hap Hwee), the Qing Qing Shi Jie dance by the Hakka Association, and contributions from Bhakti Putra, the Indonesian Chinese Muslim Association (PITI), the Indonesian Chinese Association (INTI), and the Yogyakarta Chinese School Alumni Association.

Adding to the variety, Langgeng Budoyo Studio presented a traditional harvest dance, Hokya Traditional Dance troupe performed Sang Dewantara Mudha, and the Elok Fashion Carnival showcased “Nusantara Wing” costumes.

The White Dragon performance by the Indonesian Dragon and Lion Dance Sport Federation (FOBI) DIY further highlighted the collaborative spirit of the event.

Antonius Simon, Deputy Chairman of the 21st PBTY, noted that this year’s edition coincided with Ramadan, making it distinct from previous years. "Because this year's event coincides with Ramadan, we have adapted to the environment and current circumstances to ensure everything blends into a harmonious unity," he said.

Simon also praised the resilience of residents who remained in place despite the rain to watch the carnival. “What sets this year apart is the inclusion of Nusantara elements across performances, whether on the main stage at Suryatmajan Street or during the parade,” he said.

Simon expressed optimism that attendance would surpass last year’s 16,000 visitors, emphasizing the team’s effort to make each edition unique. He added that the festival’s conclusion on March 3 aligns with the 15th day of the Lunar New Year, marking the traditional end of the season.

By synchronizing diverse traditions with the local spiritual calendar, organizers have reinforced Yogyakarta’s identity as a city where global cultural expressions and local wisdom coexist in balance. ***