Pacu Jalur Boats Showcase Indonesian Cultural Heritage
Published on 7.7.25
The Festival Pacu Jalur has evolved from a simple transportation method to an ornate boat with unique carvings, featuring essential elements like the mast, scarf, middle pole, and pennants. The competition originated as a celebration of Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr but was also used during the Dutch colonial period to commemorate Queen Wilhelmina's birthday on August 31. This tradition reflects deep meanings and philosophies in its boat-making process and dancer movements, passed down through generations.