A TRADITIONAL boat race held in conjunction with Malaysia Day helped preserve a Kelantan tradition while fostering community ties.
Eight teams took part representing Kampung Laut, Kok Keli, Bendang Pulau, Pulau Suri and communities around Tujuh Pulau.
Organised by the Tumpat District Council (MDT) in collaboration with Tourism Kelantan and Koperasi Warisan Kampung Laut Bhd (KWKLB), the event was in its second year.
Participant Nik Fakri Shah Haika Nik Mat, 21, said the event provided an opportunity for young people to connect with their local heritage while cultivating ties among participants.
“To me, this competition is not just about winning, but also an opportunity for us to discover and appreciate our traditional heritage.
“On Malaysia Day, we can come together through activities like this while ensuring that the perahu kolek is not forgotten.
“If young people do not get involved, there is a risk that this tradition could disappear,” he said.
“Pertandingan Perlumbaan Perahu Kolek” 2026 (PPPK) secretariat coordinator Nik Ahmad Amirul Asraf said perahu kolek racing had long been part of village life in Kelantan.
“Racing perahu kolek is a traditional activity enjoyed by village communities,” he told Bernama at Laman Warisan Kampung Laut in Tumpat.
Nik Ahmad said linking the competition with Malaysia Day added more significance by bringing the local community together to celebrate a special occasion.
Due to encouraging response, it would be held again next year, he said.
“We will proceed with a third edition as we received numerous requests from teams representing the communities in Tumpat even before this year’s event was held,” added Nik Ahmad.
