Pray for Continued Bali–China Relations for Shared Prosperity
DENPASAR – Bali Governor Wayan Koster, accompanied by Deputy Governor I Nyoman Giri Prasta, extended Lunar New Year 2026 greetings during the Lunar New Year Reception celebrating the Year of the Horse, held on Tuesday evening (February 10, 2026) at Hongkong Garden, Denpasar.
In his remarks before the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Denpasar, Zhang Zhisheng, Governor Koster conveyed his New Year wishes on behalf of the Bali Provincial Government and the people of Bali to all those celebrating.
“May this new year bring health, happiness, prosperity, and blessings to all of us, our families, and our communities,” Governor Koster stated.
He emphasized that Lunar New Year is not merely a change in the lunar calendar, but carries noble values highly relevant to social and national life. Values such as hard work, honesty, perseverance, and harmony form a strong foundation for building a civilized and prosperous society.
“These values align with the spirit of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (Unity in Diversity), which defines Indonesia’s national identity,” he said, noting that the open and joyful celebration of Lunar New Year reflects how cultural diversity serves as a strength rather than a dividing line.
Beyond its cultural and spiritual significance, Governor Koster highlighted the momentum of Lunar New Year as an opportunity to strengthen Bali’s tourism and creative economy sectors.
Chinese Tourist Arrivals to Bali Increase
In the tourism sector, China remains one of the largest contributors of foreign visitors to Bali. In 2024, Chinese tourist arrivals reached more than 448,000, rising significantly in 2025 to over 537,000 visitors.
“Chinese tourists rank third in visitor arrivals to Bali, after Australia and India,” Governor Koster explained.
He expressed hope that the strong diplomatic relations between Indonesia and China would further enhance cooperation between Bali Province and the Chinese government, particularly in education and human resource development.
Proposed collaborations include student exchange programs, training initiatives, scholarships, and capacity-building programs in language, technology, and tourism. These efforts are expected to produce a globally competitive young generation that remains rooted in local culture.
In closing, Governor Koster reaffirmed his commitment to fostering an inclusive, safe, and conducive environment for all segments of society, regardless of ethnic, religious, or cultural backgrounds.
“Sustainable development can only be achieved through unity, tolerance, and cross-community collaboration,” he said, expressing his hope that Bali–China relations will continue to grow for mutual prosperity.
“Let us make this Lunar New Year celebration a special moment to strengthen friendship, enhance cooperation, and nurture optimism in building a better future,” Governor Koster concluded.
Year of the Horse: Consul General Hopes for Peace and Prosperity for China and Indonesia
Meanwhile, Consul General Zhang Zhisheng stated that Lunar New Year is the most important traditional holiday for the Chinese people. He noted that the celebration has been recognized by the United Nations as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and has become an integral part of Indonesia’s cultural diversity.
“On February 17 this year, we will welcome the Lunar New Year, the Year of the Horse,” he said.
Zhang expressed his hope that the new year would bring health, success, happiness, and prosperity to all.
“May the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of Indonesia remain safe, peaceful, prosperous, and thriving,” he concluded.***
