The Riau Provincial Government and BKOW Present Mass Zapin Dance in Kebaya, MURI Sets World Record
PEKANBARU-JAYA NEWS.COM — A mass Zapin dance performance in the Labuh Kekek kebaya, involving thousands of female dancers, took place solemnly and lively on Jalan Gajah Mada, Pekanbaru City, Sunday (January 11, 2026). This event affirmed Riau Province’s commitment to preserving, nurturing, and reviving Malay culture as a cultural identity that continues to grow in public spaces.
Carrying the theme “United in the Zapin Movement, Preserving Malay Culture,” thousands of women from various backgrounds, including women’s organizations, educators, community groups, and even members of the Family Welfare Movement (PKK), united their steps in a single Zapin movement steeped in meaning, etiquette, and togetherness.
The event was also attended by the Governors of Riau, Regents and Mayors from across Riau Province, heads of government agencies, state institutions, and non-ministerial government agencies, as well as university rectors in Riau Province, along with their wives or representatives. Also in attendance were the leadership of the Riau Province Regional Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimda), the General Chairperson of the Riau Indigenous Council (MKA) of the Riau Cultural Heritage Association (LAM), the General Manager of the Indonesian Record Museum (MURI), Mr. Triyono, and the Regional Secretary of Riau Province, along with heads of regional government agencies within the Riau Provincial Government.
The Acting Governor of Riau, H. SF. Hariyanto, emphasized in his remarks that the Zapin Dance is not merely a performing art, but a reflection of the values of discipline, unity, and etiquette in Malay society. According to her, Zapin teaches that togetherness is more important than self-promotion, and that beauty is born from order.
She also emphasized the significance of the Labuh Kekek kebaya worn by the female dancers as a symbol of honor and dignity for Malay women. Amidst the currents of global modernity, Malay women in Riau demonstrate that values and honor are strengths.
The General Chairperson of the Riau Province Women’s Movement (BKOW), Dra. Hj. Adrias Hariyanto, stated that this activity is a manifestation of cultural struggle based on togetherness across women’s organizations. According to him, culture is not merely a symbol, but a way of life that must be practiced and passed down to remain relevant throughout time.
Meanwhile, Dinawati, Chairperson of the Riau Women’s Movement (LAM Riau) and Chair of the Committee, reported that preparations for the activity had been underway since October 2025 through plenary meetings across women’s organizations. Regular rehearsals are held twice a week on the Helipad Courtyard of the Riau Governor’s Residence and involve hundreds to thousands of participants from various communities.
Initially, the target number of participants was 4,000 dancers. However, after implementation and field verification, the number of participants exceeded the initial target.
General Manager Triyono, MURI, stated that the Mass Zapin Dance is no longer at the Indonesian Record level. According to MURI’s assessment, Zapin, as a cultural heritage of Riau, with such a large number of participants, is worthy of being recognized as a World Record.
MURI believes the Riau Provincial Government has proven that culture is not merely a legacy of the past, but rather a living culture that continues to grow, develop, and be collectively preserved by its people.
This Mass Zapin Dance performance, featuring Labuh Kekek kebayas, is more than just a record, but a cultural movement that affirms the identity, dignity, and togetherness of the Riau Malay community.**
Coverage Team: Sabam Tanjung
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