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Tue, 28 Jan 2025
JIMBARAN – Widiatmika Kindergarten celebrated Lunar New Year as an opportunity to introduce and appreciate cultural diversity among its students. Through various interactive activities, the children were encouraged to learn about traditional symbols, enjoy cultural performances, and taste Lunar New Year delicacies. These activities aimed not only to help the students understand the unique meanings of Chinese culture but also to teach them to respect differences as an integral part of daily life.
“This celebration is intended to instill values of brotherhood, tolerance, and togetherness. We want the children to grow into individuals who respect diversity, support one another, and contribute to creating harmony in a pluralistic society. Diversity is not a barrier but a treasure that unites us,” said Ni Ketut Arcani, a teacher at Widiatmika Kindergarten.
During the event, students were invited to create simple lanterns using red and gold paper, decorated with dragon designs or the character "福" (Fu, which means luck). The finished lanterns were displayed around the school, adding a festive Lunar New Year atmosphere. Additionally, the students performed a traditional Lunar New Year dance in the Widiatmika Kindergarten hall, which became a highlight of the celebration.
“We also introduced traditional clothing such as Cheongsam and Changshan, the tradition of sharing angpao as a symbol of blessings and good fortune, as well as festive foods like kue keranjang and mandarin oranges. Teachers explained the philosophy behind these elements so that students could understand the deeper meanings embedded in every cultural tradition,” added Arcani.
Through this approach, Widiatmika Kindergarten not only introduced Chinese culture but also taught values of togetherness, sharing, and mutual respect. By recognizing the cultural diversity in Indonesia, the students are expected to realize that the country is enriched by its differences yet remains united in harmony.
“This Lunar New Year celebration serves as a moment to teach the children that diversity is a treasure that makes the world more beautiful and vibrant. We want them to grow up with a spirit of mutual respect and collaboration to maintain harmony amidst differences,” Arcani concluded.
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