Young Dancer Sparks Global Interest in Indonesia’s Pacu Jalur Race
A viral dance sensation is drawing unprecedented crowds to the annual **Pacu Jalur** boat race in western Indonesia. Crowds have swelled as tourists flock to **Sumatra**’s **Kuantan River** to witness the event, inspired by **11-year-old Rayyan Arkan Dikha**, whose energetic dance moves aboard the traditional long boats have captured millions of views online.
The **Pacu Jalur** race, which culminates on **August 13, 2023**, is expected to attract up to **1.5 million** spectators this year, a notable increase from the **1.4 million** attendees recorded last year. Local officials estimate that this surge could generate approximately **$4.6 million** in revenue for the area, significantly higher than the **$2.5 million** earned previously, thanks to increased spending by tourists.
Global Attention on Traditional Sports
The vibrant atmosphere surrounding the race has been amplified by the viral success of a **20-second video** showcasing Rayyan’s dancing. Sports figures such as **Formula One** driver **Alex Albon** and **MotoGP** star **Marc Marquez** have joined in, mimicking his moves in their own social media posts. The excitement has attracted visitors not only from across Indonesia but also from around the world, including **Australian tourist Duncan McNaught**, who expressed his enthusiasm for the event. “I came to watch **Pacu Jalur** because I wanted to film and show the festival to the world. I think the guys who row are crazy. They’re awesome. I’m just looking forward to it,” McNaught told AFP.
Indonesian national **Yuyun Kurnia**, 38, traveled **17 hours** from the city of **Medan** to experience the race firsthand after discovering it online. “After it went viral on social media, I want to see **Pacu Jalur** directly,” she shared, adding that witnessing the event live was “amazing.”
A Historic Tradition Revitalized
The **Pacu Jalur** tradition dates back to the **17th century**, originally serving as a means of transport for goods and people on the **Kuantan River**. Over time, it evolved into a competitive racing event held every August, showcasing not just athletic skill but also cultural heritage. This year, more than **220 teams** are competing for combined prizes of around **900 million rupiah** (approximately **$55,000**), representing local villages and districts.
Residents have expressed their excitement about the newfound global interest in this local tradition. **Frima**, a 35-year-old local, commented on the significance of Rayyan’s popularity. “That kid standing and dancing on a boat, that’s not easy at all,” she remarked. Many locals, including **18-year-old Naysila Ayunita Sari**, praised Rayyan for effectively introducing the **Pacu Jalur** to a broader audience. “I think it’s super cool that a kid his age managed to create a personal branding through **Pacu Jalur**,” she stated.
As the event transforms the Kuantan River’s landscape with tents and umbrellas lining the banks, authorities are taking steps to ensure the race’s sustainability. They aim to improve the organization of the event and address environmental concerns, including pollution from illegal gold mining in the area. **Roni Rakhmat**, head of the Riau tourism agency, noted the positive shift in attention: “Compared to previous years, there weren’t any foreigners watching **Pacu Jalur**. Now there are.”
The renewed interest in the **Pacu Jalur** reflects not only a celebration of local culture but also a significant boost to the economy of Riau Province. As locals like Frima celebrate the event’s growing international recognition, many are grateful for the opportunity to showcase their traditions on a global platform. “I never would have thought that all eyes are on this small place on the western side of Riau,” she concluded, highlighting the impact of **Rayyan Arkan Dikha**’s viral fame.
