
One of the Malay culture is existing for generations is Boat Jong. This boat Jong is a typical cultural Riau Islands, which is the Malay homeland. Jong boat is very typical, and there is no engine just rely on the screen of the wind sea. Efforts to preserve the Malay culture continues with one of them holding Jong Boat Race every year in Batam.
Boat Jong game is usually performed coastal residents, are in great demand, especially among young people in the Riau Islands. Boat Jong is a miniature boats that are not steered sailboats humans, but depending on the wind direction.
Folk games is usually performed on the beach by a few people to do a race boat Jong. For most boat reaches shore first is the winner.
To manufacture Boat Jong should have particular expertise, having to choose good wood and wood carelessly used to make boat Jong. Normally, the dry pulai wood is used, because the wood is very lightweight and resistant to sea water. Jong boat is equipped with a screen made of plastic or cloth colorful beautify the look of the boat Jong.
To build Boat Jong also have the specialized skills, be patient and careful when it is not perfect then the boat will sail Jong unbalanced resulting in sinking or sailing but did not sail straightly.
Boat race Jong now has become a cultural attraction as a treat for foreign and local tourists. Jong boat race is held on a regular basis every year in Batam precisely in Kampung Melayu Beach, Batu Besar, Nongsa.
Jong boat race participants usually come from the Riau Islands areas such as Bengkalis, Kampar, Tanjungpinang, Bintan, Karimun and Batam. Not infrequently also attended by participants from Singapore and Malaysia. There are three categories of each race Jong small boats measuring up to 1.29 meters, medium 1.3-1.5 m, above 1.6 m for the major categories.
Usually Jong Boat Race is held in March every year. So if you want to enjoy the cultural attractions of the Malay race boats shall see attraction boat Jong.
