A vibrant tradition that reflects the unity, courage, and spirit of the people

Pacu Jalur, a unique cultural tradition of the people of Kuantan Singingi (Kuansing), Riau, is once again capturing public attention in 2025. The viral phenomenon known as Aura Farming, which features the energetic performances of Jalur dancers, especially children at the front of the boats, has drawn widespread interest and introduced this tradition to a broader audience. Yet beyond the viral spotlight, Pacu Jalur holds much deeper cultural significance. It is not merely a boat race but a symbol of unity, village pride, solidarity, and the spiritual values of the Malay community, passed down from generation to generation.

Pacu Jalur is an annual longboat race held on the Kuantan River. More than a sporting event, it serves as a platform to preserve culture, entertain the community, and strengthen local identity. Since 2014, Pacu Jalur has been officially recognized as part of Indonesia’s Intangible Cultural Heritage by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology. During the Dutch colonial era, Pacu Jalur was included in the official celebration of the Queen of the Netherlands' birthday. Following Indonesia’s independence, the event was realigned and has since been held every August to mark Indonesia’s Independence Day, with the main venue at Tepian Narosa in Teluk Kuantan.

This year, the 2025 Traditional Pacu Jalur Festival is part of the Karisma Event Nusantara, a signature program by the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy featuring 110 of Indonesia’s most prominent cultural events. The festival carries the theme Pacu Jalur Goes Global, Empowering MSMEs, reflecting efforts to promote local culture while supporting the growth of the creative economy.

The festival series for 2025 has been underway since mid-year with several regional selection rounds. The first round took place from June 13 to 15 at Tepian Nyiur Melambai in Cerenti. The second round followed from June 20 to 22 at Tepian Gudang Pulau Gobah in Hulu Kuantan. The third round was held from July 4 to 6 at Tepian Rajo in Pangean, while the fourth round is scheduled for July 18 to 20 at Tepian Datuak Bandaro Lelo Budi in Desa Kari. Additional events include the Pacu Jalur Mini Pulau Aro, set for July 25 to 27 at Tepian Ronge Biru, Desa Pulau Aro in Kuantan Tengah, and the Cultural Pacu Jalur event from August 7 to 10 at Tepian Lubuk Sobae in Basrah, Kuantan Hilir.

The main highlight of the festival will take place at Tepian Narosa, Teluk Kuantan, from August 20 to 24, 2025. A wide range of cultural activities will be featured, including the Maelo Jalur ritual, traditional art performances, cultural showcases from different regions, music concerts, cultural seminars, photography and video competitions, as well as MSME exhibitions and traditional food fairs. The entire series will conclude with the Pacu Jalur Mini Sukaraja, scheduled for October 24 to 26 in Suka Raja Village, Logas Tanah Darat.

Pacu Jalur remains not only a proud tradition of Kuansing but also a living heritage of Indonesia. It continues to thrive and evolve, standing as a symbol of enduring cultural strength, ready to shine on the global stage.

photo source: instagram.com/pacujalur_net

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