Viral 11-Year-Old Sparks 100,000 Extra Spectators at Indonesian Pacu Jalur Race
Viral 11-Year-Old Sparks 100,000 Extra Spectators at Indonesian Pacu Jalur Race

Viral 11-Year-Old Sparks 100,000 Extra Spectators at Indonesian Pacu Jalur Race

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The annual Pacu Jalur boat race in Sumatra, Indonesia, has seen an unprecedented surge in spectators this year, with an estimated 100,000 additional attendees drawn by 11-year-old Rayyan Arkan Dikha’s viral dance performance on the boats. Rayyan’s calm and skillful dancing, which signals his team’s lead during the race, has captivated audiences worldwide, garnering millions of views and inspiring sports stars like Formula One’s Alex Albon and MotoGP’s Marc Marquez to imitate his moves. The event, which involves teams of 40 to 70 men rowing traditional long wooden boats, has a rich history dating back to the 17th century and is held on the Kuantan river in Riau Province. Last year, the race attracted 1.4 million visitors and generated over $2.5 million for the local economy; this year, officials expect 1.5 million spectators, including many foreigners, with projected revenue potentially reaching $4.6 million. Rayyan, who has been training and participating in the race with his father for several years, is also set to perform at the closing ceremony alongside rapper Melly Mike, further cementing his role as a cultural ambassador for the festival. The viral sensation has helped boost tourism and global awareness of the Pacu Jalur race, highlighting the fusion of traditional sport and modern social media influence.

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