JAKARTA, JAKTIMES.COM — The Jakarta Provincial Government has announced that this year’s Lunar New Year (Imlek) celebrations in the capital will be more vibrant and festive than ever. Working closely with the central government, a wide range of cultural events and public attractions have been prepared to bring the city to life.
“Last week, the central government and the Jakarta administration held a joint coordination meeting to prepare for the Lunar New Year celebrations,” Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung said at Shangri-La Hotel Jakarta on Tuesday (Feb. 3).
A series of events will take place across multiple iconic locations in the capital. Planned highlights include celebrations at Lapangan Banteng, the traditional Cap Go Meh festivities in Glodok, as well as lion dance performances along the bustling Sudirman–Thamrin corridor. Adding to the festive atmosphere, a lantern festival will also illuminate several parts of the city, particularly in the SCBD area.
Pramono revealed that the lantern festival has received strong support from the private sector. To date, 93 building owners have confirmed their participation in decorating their properties with lantern installations.
“We are encouraging the public and building owners to actively contribute to Jakarta’s Lantern Festival. So far, 93 buildings have joined,” he said.
According to the governor, Jakarta aims to celebrate every major religious and cultural holiday with distinctive colors and themes, transforming the capital into a lively urban space throughout the year.
The Lunar New Year festivities are scheduled to run until February 17, ahead of the upcoming holy month of Ramadan. Pramono noted that once Ramadan begins, the city’s atmosphere will shift to reflect a more spiritual tone leading up to Eid al-Fitr.
“The city’s ambiance will completely change as we welcome Ramadan through to Eid al-Fitr,” he said.
To further boost public enthusiasm during the Lunar New Year and Eid celebrations, the Jakarta administration will once again offer tax incentives to shopping centers that organize discount festivals for residents.
“From February 18 until Eid, we will provide tax incentives to shopping malls that offer discounts, so shopping in Jakarta becomes more affordable,” Pramono explained.
Drawing lessons from the 2026 Christmas and New Year discount festivals, Pramono noted that total transactions during that period reached Rp15.2 trillion, marking a new record for Jakarta.
“That was a record-breaking achievement for Jakarta. We encouraged competition, offered tax incentives, and allowed extended operating hours,” he added.
Pramono expressed confidence that similar discount programs this year will not only boost consumer spending but also add to the festive spirit of Lunar New Year and Eid al-Fitr celebrations across the capital (Wan)