TheJakartaPost

Please Update your browser

Your browser is out of date, and may not be compatible with our website. A list of the most popular web browsers can be found below.
Just click on the icons to get to the download page.

Jakarta Post

Pacu Jalur Festival to enliven Riau Islands

  (Pesona Indonesia)
Jakarta
Sat, August 19, 2017

Share This Article

Change Size

Pacu Jalur Festival to enliven Riau Islands Aerial shot of Riau Islands. (Shutterstock/File)

R

iau Islands is set to host a rowing competition called Pacu Jalur Festival from Aug. 23 to 26 at Tepian Narosa Teluk Kuantan, Kuantan regency.

“Pacu Jalur Festival isn’t just a competition, it’s also a cultural pride of the people of Riau Islands province, especially those who live in Kuantan Singingi. It’s a rowing competition on a river using long wooden boats; a combination of sports and art,” said Kuantan Singigi Regent H. Mursini.

Prior to the festival, smaller rowing events were held in four districts from July 6 to 29, followed by a traditional mini route held at Tepian Narosa Teluk Kuantan from Aug. 19 to 21.

One boat can accommodate between 50 to 60 rowers who are aged between 15 to 40 years old. Each of them has a role to play in the team, one acts as the commander and another acts as the helmsman. There’s also member of the team who is in charge of synchronizing the others’ movement.

This competition adopts the knockout system, meaning that losing teams are not allowed to compete again.

The race begins after the sound of a cannon explosion is heard. Such is used because it creates a louder sound than a whistle. (kes)



{

Your Opinion Counts

Your thoughts matter - share your experiences, suggestions, and any issues you've encountered on The Jakarta Post. We're here to listen.

Enter at least 30 characters
0 / 30

Thank You

Thank you for sharing your thoughts. We appreciate your feedback.