August 2025 marks the return of Pacu Jalur, a cultural spectacle that transforms the Kuantan River, Riau, Indonesia into a stage of strength, rhythm, and pride. Beyond the famous “aura farming” trend that have gone viral, the heart of this tradition lies in something deeper: the unwavering commitment of every village to build, own, and honor a jalur—the long wooden boat that carries not just rowers, but the very identity of a community.
Why Every Village Must Have a Jalur
In Kuansing, there is an unspoken rule: every village must have a jalur. A jalur is not just a long boat for racing—it is a symbol of pride and dignity.
For the people of Kuansing, if a village does not field a jalur in the Pacu Jalur festival, it is seen as though the village has no men, or worse, as if it lacks strength altogether.
That is why Pacu Jalur is never short of participants. At the very least, one jalur is built and launched by each village, though some even bring two boats at once. These boats are lovingly maintained and can last for many years.
When a jalur is no longer used, it can be borrowed by another village—on the condition that it is properly cared for. There is an irreplaceable sense of pride when a village’s jalur carries its name and honor across the waters of the Kuantan River.
The Spirit of Gotong Royong
Building a jalur is not a task for one man, it is a movement of many hands. The journey begins with felling sacred timber from the communal forest, then shaping, carving, and decorating it with intricate motifs. The process demands weeks of labor, countless meals, and endless laughter shared among neighbors.
Even transporting the jalur to the race site is a communal feat. Imagine dozens of villagers carrying a massive boat across kilometers of land, fueled not by money but by pride and collective spirit.
Here, gotong royong (mutual cooperation) is not just a concept; it is the very breath that keeps Pacu Jalur alive across generations.
Life by the River: Sleeping in Tents
Every August, hundreds of thousands flood the Kuantan Riverbanks. Spectators and participants travel for hours, sometimes days, to be part of the festival. Instead of booking hotels, many choose to pitch tents near the arena, turning the riverbank into a giant, lively village.
It’s not just a race! It's a reunion, a festival, and a reminder that in Kuansing, the river belongs to everyone.
Jalur as Identity, Jalur as Legacy
For the people of Kuansing, a jalur is more than wood and paint. It is a living identity. To march your boat to the Kuantan River is to carry your village’s name, its history, and its collective pride.
Even when a boat is borrowed and used by another group, the original village still beams with honor. After all, every paddle stroke is more than a bid for victory—it is a gesture of dignity.
