Central Jakarta Satpol PP Ensures No Lion Dance Performance During Chinese New Year Celebration

Photo illustration of Lion Dance (Source: Commons WIkimedia)

JAKARTA - The Central Jakarta Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) monitored eight monasteries that held face-to-face worship during the Chinese New Year on Tuesday, February 1.

Head of Central Jakarta Satpol PP Bernard Tambunan said that in fact there are 32 monasteries in Central Jakarta, but only eight that carry out worship for the people.

"Only eight monasteries carry out activities, two of which are in Tanah Abang. The remaining 24 monasteries (worships) are via zoom," said Head of Central Jakarta Central Police Satpol Bernard to VOI, Monday, December 31.

Although only eight monasteries were carrying out activities, the Satpol PP still mobilized around 80 members to prevent crowds at the eight monasteries.

"The eight monasteries are in the areas of Sawah Besar, Tanah Abang, Senen and Gambir," he said.

In addition to guarding the temple, officers will also go around to ensure there are no Lion Dance or Dragon Lion performances around the temple to prevent crowds and the potential spread of the virus.

"The procession such as the lion dance is certainly not allowed. The Deputy Governor has also emphasized that because later it will cause a crowd, especially now that the Omicron variant is increasing," said Bernard.

Officers will also ensure that there are no beggars or PMKS who usually appear in front of the temple.

"We will advise later not to be there, but we did not make arrests because of the Chinese New Year atmosphere," he said.