Along with the commemoration of the Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia, the 2019 Pacu Jalur Festival was again held. The festival will take place on August 21-25, 2019 at the Edge of Narosa Telukkuan, Kuansing, Riau.
In the language of the local people, the word Path means boat. That way, Pacu Jalur is a rowing competition on the river using a long boat made of tree wood. The length of the boat can reach 25-40 meters with a middle width of about 1.3-1.5 meters. The history of Pacu Jalur dates back to the 17th century, where the route was the main means of transportation for villagers in Rantau Kuantan. Namely the area along the Kuantan River which is located between Hulu Kuantan and Cirenti Districts.
At that time, land transportation was not yet developed. As a result, the route is used as a means of transportation for villagers, especially to transport agricultural products, such as bananas and sugar cane. To transport people, the line can carry around 40 to 60 people. Next, appear paths that are beautifully carved, both on the hull and selembayung (decoration on the roof). Coupled with parasol equipment, rigging, scarves, center pole, and waving (a place for the helmsman).
Changes with various decorations or beautiful sizes indicate the development of the function of the route not only as a means of transportation, but also shows social identity. Because, only the rulers or nobles who ride the ornate path.
Years later, residents saw the other side of the track that became more and more interesting, namely by holding a speed competition between lanes which until now was known as Pacu Jalur.
At first, Pacu Jalur was held in villages along the Kuantan River to commemorate Islamic holidays. Along with the times, Pacu Jalur was held to commemorate the Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia. During the Dutch colonial period, Pacu Jalur was held to enliven traditional celebrations, people's feasts and to commemorate the birthday of the Dutch Queen Wilhelmina which fell on 31 August. The Pacu Jalur activity was then started on August 31 until September 1 or 2, which lasted for three days.
Today, the Pacu Jalur festival is a festive folk party. According to local people's beliefs, Pacu Jalur is the culmination of all their activities and all the efforts they put in to earn a living for one year.
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