“Tjap Go Meh” Introduction of Acculturation as Mutual Respect for Society

Abstract

Lontong Tjap Go Meh is one of the most popular Chinese half-state dishes in Indonesia. Initially, this dish was served at the Tjap Go Meh celebration, which is the celebration of the fifteenth day of the Chinese new year. In further developments, we can enjoy this dish every day. Uniquely, this dish is actually not found in China. The similarity with Ketupat Lebaran, has a connection with the spread of Islam in Java and acculturation with the local culture. We can find a similar dish in Malaysia, Laksa. Unfortunately, not many people know about the origin and philosophy of this dish. In the Chinese community in Indonesia itself, many Chinese people, especially the younger generation do not know the history behind the lontong Tjap Go Meh , except as a dish passed down by the previous generation. Tjap Go Meh's celebration in Indonesia can be said as something new for them, especially since this celebration was banned during the New Order regime. This cultural-based research intends to reintroduce the origins and philosophy of Lontong Tjap Go Meh through media that can be enjoyed by the younger generation, namely short animation. With qualitative research, and supported by observational data collection, literature study and interviews with Chinese cultural figures, it is hoped that the messages to be conveyed through character and setting designs can be effectively received.

Keywords: Tjap Go Meh, Chinese Culture within South East Asia, Chinese half-state.

DOI: 10.7176/ADS/99-01

Publication date: February 28^th 2022