Viral Boat Dancing Child Turns Indonesia’s Pacu Jalur Into Global Spectacle

The annual Pacu Jalur boat race on the Kuantan River in Sumatra has always been a source of local pride, but this year it became something much bigger. What was once a beloved regional tradition suddenly found itself in the global spotlight, thanks to an 11-year-old boy whose fearless dance moves went viral.

A Child Who Stole the Show

Meet Rayyan Arkan Dikha. Perched on the tip of a long wooden boat, Rayyan became an internet sensation after a 20-second clip showed him dancing with effortless calm while rowers behind him paddled furiously. His playful swirls and arm swings, set to an American rap track, captured hearts worldwide.

Celebrities soon joined the trend. Formula One driver Alex Albon and MotoGP champion Marc Márquez copied his dance in their own videos, spreading the Pacu Jalur story far beyond Indonesia.

From Local Festival to International Attraction

The Pacu Jalur, which dates back to the 17th century, began as a way for villagers to transport goods on the Kuantan River before evolving into fierce longboat races held every August. Teams representing villages paddle in unison while a dancer at the bow urges them on.

This year, officials estimated that up to 100 000 additional visitors poured into the region because of Rayyan’s viral fame. Tourism authorities now expect spectator numbers to hit 1.5 million, with revenue possibly climbing to $4.6 million (about R86 million).

“It’s super cool that a kid his age managed to create a personal branding through Pacu Jalur,” said 18-year-old local Naysila Ayunita Sari. “Through his dances, he has introduced Pacu Jalur to the entire world.”

Visitors Flock From Afar

For some, the viral video was their first introduction to Pacu Jalur. Australian tourist Duncan McNaught made the journey to Sumatra after seeing Rayyan’s clip online. “I came to watch because I wanted to film and show the festival to the world,” he said.

Even Indonesians were drawn from across the country. Yuyun Kurnia, 38, drove 17 hours from Medan to witness the spectacle firsthand. “After it went viral, I just had to see Pacu Jalur directly,” she said, calling it “amazing.”

A Race With Deep Roots

Behind the spectacle lies a competition steeped in history and community. More than 220 teams competed this year for combined prizes of nearly R1 million. Villages train and fund their crews months in advance, with the event uniting generations of locals along the Kuantan River.

For veteran spectators like Frima, who has watched the races since childhood, this year felt surreal. “I never would have thought that all eyes are on this small place on the western side of Riau,” he said. “I’m grateful Pacu Jalur is now known worldwide.”

A Festival Transformed

The riverbank turned into a carnival of colour, lined with umbrellas, tents, and vendors. Some spectators even waded into the water for a closer look. The government, aware of the sudden international attention, ramped up efforts to clean the river and curb illegal gold mining nearby to protect the event’s future.

The sight of Rayyan dancing fearlessly at the front of the boat has not only inspired rowers but also breathed new life into an old tradition. What began as a local celebration has, in a matter of weeks, become a global spectacleproof that sometimes, all it takes is the courage of a child to put a centuries-old culture on the world stage.

Source:IOL 

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