Not Just Another Chinese New Year

In Indonesia, as Chinese culture has been assimilated in for centuries, the glorious tradition served best on the dining table. 

"We got plentiful of food and meals, cookies and fruits. In Xin Cia (Imlek),  every elders got their own secret recipe and has to be delightly addicting", Floretta explained. While to Ferry, Peranakan cuisine is way fit to his taste. "Pindang Bandeng". He chose his best one. 

But talking about Imlek is also talking about the role of Chinese to this nation. Monica has her own thought.

"It was not only my grandfather, there were more Chinese migrated to Indonesia, to trade. I think that Chinese are more accepted here for now. We can also celebrate Cap Go Meh, the post - Imlek tradition with Barongsai performance. I still, can hear some bad sayings on us, which i have to say, that we are hard worker. And we are really loves this country". Vincent also emphasizes the acceptance aspect. "Since then, Chinese are accepted here. Its culture, language, cuisine, dances and music. With or without recognition, we have seen much how society embraces us", he said. 

Different thought comes from Ferry, as he feels the opposite circumstance. "I think that it is still hard for us. We are not really that accepted here. We are still minority, afterall". But as Indonesian youth, he expects high on the current administration, especially to President Joko Widodo and the Governor of Jakarta, Ahok, who comes from Chinese Indonesian family as well.  

To Floretta, unity is important. "I really hope that Chinese Indonesian could work together well with the Pribumi's".  This is showing us a shift of paradigm among Chinese Indonesian youth, whom are now optimistically fluorished and totally devoted to the country.  Floretta, as many Chinese Indonesian now, is set for a better year ahead. Wishing for a wealthier nation and prosperous economy. We have seen more Chinese Indonesian today are taking part also in Politics, while many of them also do the country so much proud abroad, so that younger generation like Ferry, Floretta, Monica and Vincent would be nation's next leader. Monica added, "I hope that i could contribute for Indonesia. I might be of Chinese descendance, but i am Indonesian too". Well,  this year might not be just another Imlek for us, too.

 

Happy Chinese New Year, Gong Xi Fa Cai, Xi Nien Kuai Le.