Jakarta, Feb. 16 -- The barongsai , or lion dance, from China is one of the performances that enlivens Lunar New Year celebrations in Indonesia. More than just an entertaining show, the presence of barongsai in the country reflects cultural harmony as well as achievement.

Cultural observer and researcher of Chinese-Indonesian studies Alexander Raymon, also known as Alex Cheung, told ANTARA that barongsai serves not only as a performing art but also as a medium to express spirit, hope, optimism, courage, and unity.

As a symbol of the brave lion, barongsai is believed to possess mystical powers capable of warding off evil spirits and bringing good fortune, prosperity, happiness, and peace.

"In the past, the Chinese community believed tha...