Happy Lunar New Year! In Indonesia, we also call it Tahun Baru (New Year) Imlek.
Imlek has an interesting history in Indonesia, which might be only partially true as it’s a personal observation as an outsider, but I’ll try.
When I was still in school, Imlek wasn’t widely recognized. We didn’t talk about it, and my school friends, who are majority Asian, didn’t even take the day off from school. But slowly, over the years, it became more significant, along with my interest in the Eastern Zodiac. As they say, you start noticing the things you give attention to.
One of the most vivid memories I have of Imlek is the top-notch decor in Mall Anggrek; it was unlike anything else. Over the years, as the Chinese community grew, the celebrations became more prevalent, and finally, in 2001, it became an official holiday. Unfortunately, I no longer live in Indonesia, so I have never been invited to celebrate with my Chinese friends. Imlek here is highly associated with gift-giving, primarily cakes and the colour red, and dining out, which I have yet to experience as an outsider.
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