22 July 2026
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Indonesian dancing boy turns ancient boat race into global party

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Banglapress Published: 23 September 2025, 10:26 AM
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Indonesian dancing boy turns ancient boat race into global party
  Bangla Press Desk: Rowers with rainbow-painted oars sliced through the Kuantan River in western Indonesia, muscles burning as long wooden boats surged forward. But this year’s Pacu Jalur race wasn’t just about the competition — it was about an 11-year-old boy who stole the show. A 20-second clip of Rayyan Arkan Dikha dancing at the tip of a boat transformed the centuries-old festival into an internet sensation. His effortless moves, performed on the edge of a rocking vessel, went viral and drew tens of thousands of new spectators to the riverside. Officials estimate the video brought an extra 100,000 people to this year’s race. “After it went viral on social media, I wanted to see Pacu Jalur in person,” said Yuyun Kurnia, 38, who drove 17 hours from Medan. “It was amazing.” The clip racked up millions of views and even inspired global sports stars like Formula One driver Alex Albon and MotoGP champion Marc Marquez to mimic Rayyan’s swirling, swinging routine.
From boat race to TikTok phenomenon Suddenly, Pacu Jalur was no longer just about raw strength and rowing precision — it became part traditional regatta, part viral dance challenge. International fans flocked to Kuantan as well. “I came to watch Pacu Jalur because I wanted to film and show the festival to the world,” said Australian tourist Duncan McNaught. “The rowers are incredible. I just wanted to experience it.” More than 220 teams competed this year, each boat propelled by dozens of paddlers while a dancer — like Rayyan — balanced at the bow to energize the crew and thrill the crowd.
“That kid standing and dancing on a moving boat, that’s not easy at all,” said Frima, a 35-year-old local. “If you ask me whether I’d try it, the answer is no.” A tradition reborn The Pacu Jalur dates back to the 17th century, when villagers built jalur boats to transport goods along the river. Over time, the vessels became central to community celebrations, culminating in today’s massive annual festival. Now, thanks to one fearless 11-year-old, the centuries-old tradition has found a new audience across the world. This article was originally published on Daily Sun. [Bangla Press is a global platform for free thought. It provides impartial news, analysis, and commentary for independent-minded individuals. Our goal is to bring about positive change, which is more important today than ever before.]
BP/ZE
[Bangla Press is a global platform for free thought. It provides impartial news, analysis, and commentary for independent-minded individuals. Our goal is to bring about positive change, which is more important today than ever before.]

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