Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) is set to host a sombre New Year’s Eve event featuring a mass prayer and the lighting of 1,000 candles in place of pyrotechnics.

TMII’s Acting President Director, Ratri Paramita noted that the occasion is intended as a space for reflection and togetherness amidst the ongoing disasters in various parts of the country.

"This move is a mark of respect and empathy for our brothers and sisters in Aceh, North Sumatra, West Sumatra, West Java, and Central Java during these trying times,” she explained, Monday (12/29).

She maintained that the New Year is about more than just celebration; it is about showing care and standing together as one nation.

“To bring this spirit to life, we are organising a ‘Thousand-Candle Vigil’ and a charity drive for all our guests. Every penny raised will be donated to residents hit by the recent natural disasters across the country,” she stated.

Hopefully, the event would serve as a platform for communal solidarity, allowing the public to offer prayers, share aspirations for the future, and provide tangible support for those impacted by the disasters.

East Jakarta Metro Resort Police Chief, Pol. Alfian Nurrizal added that TMII has ramped up its security for New Year’s Eve with a 287-strong force consisting of 167 police officers, 80 elite Mobile Brigade (Brimob) units, and 40 specialist protection officers.

"They are joining hands with TMII’s own security staff, the military, and city council workers to maintain public order during the transition to the new year," he stated.