Indonesian Independence celebration with Traditional Bidar Boat Festival 2025

Clear skies encompass the Indonesian Independence Day celebrations in Palembang City, South Sumatra Province on Aug. 17, 2025. The Musi River once again became a stage for tradition. Thousands of residents crowded the banks, joining in cheers for the long-awaited Bidar and Decorated Boat Competition.

From upstream to downstream, the roaring sound came not from the river's current, but from the beating of the oars by bidar rowers. The traditional South Sumatran fast boats advanced like arrows.

Meanwhile, the decorated boats sailed gracefully. They display cultural symbols, namely limas houses, songket cloth, and golden dragons that swayed majestically on the water.

Palembang Mayor Ratu Dewa, who was present at the 2025 Traditional Bidar Boat Festival, witnessed the fierce competitions for the respective championships of the bidar race and decorated boat parade.

Each team represented their respective regional government organizations, region-owned enterprises (BUMD), as well as representatives of regencies and cities in South Sumatra Province.

"The Musi River is not only a source of life, but also a source of culture. The Bidar Festival is our heritage, and I am committed to making it a bigger annual event," said Dewa.

In the past, bidar were used by the troops of the Palembang Darussalam Sultanate as part of the kingdom's river fleet. Now, bidar is an annual event that unites residents from all over the city, even those living along the banks of the Musi River.

Each bidar boat, which could reach 40 meters in length, is manned by 42 rowers who move in unison. The colorful boats adorn the river, while spectators crowd the Ampera Bridge and the banks of Kuto Besak Fort, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

The Palembang City Government and the Tourism Ministry are committed to elevating bidar to the world stage. The festival is included in the ministry's Karisma Event Nusantara 2025 calendar of cultural festivals.

"This isn't just about speed, but [also] about heritage. The world needs to know that the Musi River story," said Ratu.

At the occasion, South Sumatra Governor Herman Deru expressed his appreciation to Ratu. He considered the festival successful in elevating local traditions to the global stage.

"This festival isn't just about sports and entertainment, but also a symbol of South Sumatra's cultural pride. Cultural heritage can be packaged attractively and simultaneously boost the region's tourism image," Herman concluded.