🖋️ Writer: Syahrizal – Regional Bureau Chief, Aswin Media
✍️ Editor: Kenzo | AswinNews.com – Sharp, Accurate, Reliable, and Up-to-Date
Bintan – AswinNews.com – A festive atmosphere filled Desa Teluk Bakau, Gunung Kijang District, Bintan Regency, Riau Islands, on Saturday (August 23, 2025). Hundreds of locals and foreign tourists flocked to Jalan Wisata Bahari KM 37 to witness the Jong Boat Race, held to commemorate the 80th Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia.
This traditional mini-sailboat race, deeply rooted in the culture of coastal communities, has become a major attraction. Hundreds of colorful Jong boats decorated the waters of Teluk Bakau, creating a spectacular maritime panorama.
Junaidi, the chief organizer and judge of the competition, announced that a total of 168 participants joined this year’s race. They were divided into two categories: Jong Kecik (small boats, 81 participants) and Jong Besar (large boats, 87 participants).
“We are proud to see such tremendous enthusiasm from the community. It proves that the Jong tradition is still loved and continuously preserved in Bintan,” Junaidi said.
The Jong Race in Teluk Bakau has been held regularly since 2012 and is now an annual event eagerly anticipated by both locals and tourists. This year, 13 groups took part, including the Sriwijaya Group, which fielded 15 Jong boats across both categories. Amir, the group leader, highlighted that their participation is a form of love for maritime heritage.
“We hope the younger generation will learn more about and appreciate the Jong tradition. It is a cultural legacy that must be preserved,” Amir stated.
The scenic beauty of Teluk Bakau beach—with its rising tides and gentle sea breeze—added to the excitement of the race. Participants skillfully maneuvered their Jong boats to reach the finish line, while cheers from spectators echoed across the shore. Foreign tourists eagerly captured the vibrant moments with their cameras.
Beyond entertainment, the event also boosted the local economy. Many small vendors earned profits by selling food and drinks to visitors.
The Bintan Regency Government expressed strong appreciation for the event, hoping that the Jong Race can continue to be held annually and become one of Bintan’s flagship tourism attractions.
With the successful hosting of the Jong Boat Race in Teluk Bakau, the spirit of independence and love for cultural heritage shines brighter in the hearts of the people—especially the community of Bintan.
