Chinese New Year the Simple Way in Indonesia

Uploaded by NTDTV on Jan 21, 2009

NILSEN:

After decades of living in Indonesia, Chinese descendants are keeping their traditions. They are welcoming the Chinese New Year in their own simple way.

STORY:

Hundreds of Chinese descendants in Tangerang, Indonesia enthusiastically take part in various activities to welcome the Chinese New Year. They can get a free haircut, go to a clothes bazaar, or even get free medical treatment. A foundation is voluntarily holding these activities in Sekar Wangi village, Tangerang—where 60% of the residents are of Chinese descent.

People can also have a free family photo session, adding a warm touch to the event.

One participant is very happy to join in the fun.

[Putri, Participant]:
"I'm so happy, because if we go to the hair salon we still need to pay money.”

[Ivan, Event Organizer Member]:
"Through this event, we would like to invite people in need, to share happiness with all citizens.”

The lives of ethnic Chinese in this village are very simple and down-to-earth. Some of their houses are built semi-permanent, made from bamboo. It is far from luxurious life, but they still keep the New Year spirit by making traditional Chinese New Year rice cakes called "Nian Gao."

During the day people get together with their families to celebrate.

[Alen, Tangerang Resident]:
"Every Chinese New Year I always come to my parents' house to celebrate because my family is here."

NTD, Tangerang, Indonesia.