Mandi Balimau Kasai at Teluk Latak,Ancestral Tradition Towards. Bengkalis Cultural Tourism
Mandi Balimau Kasai in Teluk Latak, Ancestral Tradition Towards Bengkalis Cultural Tourism
BENGKALIS –ASWINNEWS.COM – The tradition of Mandi Balimau Kasai in Teluk Latak Village, Bengkalis District, continues to be preserved as a cultural heritage passed down from generation to generation. The activity which took place in Simpang Baru Hamlet, Friday (28/02/2025), in the yard of the As-Sholihin Mosque is expected to develop into an annual tourism event in Bengkalis Regency.
The Head of Teluk Latak Village, Mansur, appreciated the organizing committee, traditional leaders, community leaders, and the younger generation who continue to maintain this tradition. “We are proud that the community is still maintaining this culture. Hopefully in the future Mandi Balimau Kasai can become a tourist attraction, as well as a momentum to strengthen friendship ahead of Ramadan,” said Mansur.
In addition to maintaining cultural values, this activity is also expected to be an inspiration for the younger generation to continue to preserve customs. Mansur appreciated the creativity of the children who performed traditional musical instruments such as bamboo kentongan and used paint buckets combined with sholawat and kompang.
“This shows an extraordinary spirit in preserving culture. Steps like this must continue to be supported so that ancestral heritage remains sustainable and is not replaced by foreign cultures,” he added.
In the same place, Bengkalis DPRD Member, Hendra Jeje, S.T., who is also a son of Teluk Latak, expressed his support so that this tradition can be developed into a regional tourism icon. “This is in line with the vision of the Bengkalis Regent in realizing a region that is Dignified, Advanced, and Prosperous,” he said.
He also appealed to all participants to maintain order and respect customary and religious values in this celebration. “Let’s celebrate meaningfully without violating norms and rules,” he said.
One of the community leaders explained that the Mandi Balimau Kasai tradition has been carried out by ancestors from Kampar Regency who migrated and settled in Teluk Latak Village, Bengkalis District, Bengkalis Regency for more than 30 years. Currently, about 50% of the village population comes from Kampar, while 40% are local residents.
“We hope that Mandi Balimau Kasai will become an icon of Teluk Latak Village that will continue to be remembered and preserved by future generations,” he concluded.