DILI, 17 february 2026 (TATOLI) – The Chinese community, together with Timorese leaders and local residents, on tuesday welcomed the Year of the Fire Horse in Dili.
Participants gathered at a Chinese temple in the capital, where they performed traditional rites reflecting their cultural identity. Following prayers, performers staged the traditional lion dance, an artistic expression symbolizing protection and good fortune.
Organized by the Associação Comercial da Comunidade Chinesa Timor Oan, the event highlighted the start of the Year of the Fire Horse (Yang) in 2026, a symbol of dynamism, energy and determination.
Based on the lunar calendar, the festival marks the beginning of a new annual cycle and is observed over 15 days, culminating in the Lantern Festival.
Each year in the Chinese zodiac corresponds to one of 12 animals — Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig — combined with one of five elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water.
Participants later visited the Chinese Embassy in Timor-Leste, on Praia dos Coqueiros in Dili, to convey New Year greetings to Ambassador Wang Wenli — a customary gesture rooted in Chinese New Year traditions.
Deputy Prime Minister Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, who attended the event, congratulated Chinese residents on the celebration.
“Pope Francis has spoken about human fraternity, stressing that on any occasion we can celebrate together as one family. I came to extend festive greetings to the Ambassador, her team and the Chinese community in Timor-Leste,” he said.
Kalbuadi Lay said the celebration reflects religious tolerance, cultural diversity and the strong friendship between the peoples of Timor-Leste and China.
Ambassador Wang conveyed wishes of prosperity to Chinese residents in Timor-Leste and expressed hope they would continue to live in peace and stability.
“I call on Chinese citizens in Timor-Leste to preserve their culture and identity and to promote peace in the country,” she said.
ACCCTO President Kathleen Gonçalves said the Chinese community in Timor-Leste numbers about 20,000 people. She added that the community celebrates the Chinese New Year to share the joy of the Spring Festival and that ACCCTO aims to further strengthen economic, commercial and cultural cooperation with Timor-Leste.
Journalist: Ivonia da Silva
Editor: Isaura Lemos de Deus
Translation: Camilio de Sousa
