Riau MTQ Opens, Collaborating with Pacu Jalur to Boost Regional Economy

Kuantan Singingi, MINA – The Riau Provincial Government is collaborating on the 2026 Riau Province-level Qur’an Recitation Competition (MTQ), which officially opened on Saturday evening, with the cultural event Pacu Jalur in Kuantan Singingi Regency to encourage economic growth, tourism, and the empowerment of micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM).

The opening of the 44th Riau Province-level MTQ in Kuantan Singingi was lively, attended by members of the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimda), regional heads from across Riau Province, the panel of judges, representatives from 12 regencies/cities, and thousands of residents.

Acting Governor of Riau, SF Hariyanto, stated that this year’s MTQ will not only focus on the propagation of the Qur’an but will also be designed to have a tangible impact on the community’s economy through collaboration with Pacu Jalur, which has become a cultural icon of Kuantan Singingi.

“The MTQ remains the spirit of the propagation of the Quran, while Pacu Jalur represents the cultural pride of the Kuantan Singingi community. When the two work hand in hand, greater benefits will be created through increased tourism, the movement of UMKM, and the community’s economic growth,” said Hariyanto.

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According to him, the combination of religious and cultural activities is a strategy for bringing development that touches various sectors. In addition to strengthening Islamic values, this synergy is also expected to introduce the region’s potential to tourists while boosting economic activity in the community.

Hariyanto also expressed his appreciation to the Kuantan Singingi Regency Government, the Qur’an Recitation Development Institute (LPTQ), the committee, security forces, and the community for their collaborative efforts to ensure the success of this year’s MTQ.

Pacu Jalur Rayon I was held from June 12-14, 2026, in Inuman District.

Currently, the Pacu Jalur Rayon 2 is underway in Kuantan Tengah/Taipei Narosa District, from June 27-29, 2026, to coincide with the Riau Province MTQ (Quotes Recitation Competition).

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The National Pacu Jalur Festival will take place from August 19-23, 2026, in Tepian Narosa, Teluk Kuantan. []

Mi’raj News Agency (MINA)

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