Covid-19: No Lion Dance Performances during CNY in Indonesia's Pontianak City

PONTIANAK, KOMPAS.com - In ushering the Year of the Ox, there will be no lion dance activities - one of the important traditions during the Lunar New Year celebrations - in Pontianak, West Kalimantan next week due to the Covid-19 restrictions. 

The decision came after a coordination meeting held by the Covid-19 Task Force in Pontianak, the city known for its large population of ethnic Chinese.

Pontianak Mayor Edi Rusdi Kamtono, who is also the head of the Covid-19 Task Force in the city, has also banned the firework displays, dragon carnival performances, and annual Cap Go Meh, which is celebrated on the 15th day of the Lunar New Year to prevent mass gatherings that have been the source of the coronavirus. 

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"However, people will be allowed to attend prayers in temples and they are asked to strictly follow the health protocols," he said.

kompas.com / Nabilla Ramadhian A file photo of lion dance performance in China Town, Jakarta dated February 5, 2020.

Those who celebrate the Chinese New Year are advised to celebrate it in low profile amid the pandemic and avoid activities that could spread the coronavirus. 

Mass gatherings are not allowed during the pandemic.

"This year is the year of patience and mindfulness for all of us due to the Covid-19 pandemic," he said.

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Separately, Police Commissioner (Kombes) Leo Joko Triwibowo, Pontianak City Police chief, said that his party will focus on ensuring security at the temples during the Chinese New Year.