[365 GLOBAL RECORD NEWS] MURI Record: MURI recognizes the largest women's Sapin Bagan dance performance

30-07-2026

(worldkings.org) On July 23, 2026, MURI (Indonesian World Records Museum) recognized the largest Sapin Bagan dance performance by female participants. The record was achieved during the "Semarak Tari Rokan Hilir dan Hari Anak Nasional" event, organized by the Rokan Hilir Regency Government to celebrate traditional dance and Indonesia's National Children's Day.

The performance brought together 7,750 women from 18 districts (kecamatan) across Rokan Hilir Regency. Participants represented a wide cross-section of society, including government employees, members of dance studios, and the general public, spanning multiple generations from children to adults. Their collective participation established a new record officially recognized by MURI.

Photo: MURI

 

Sapin Bagan is a traditional Malay dance originating from Bagan Punak Village in Bagansiapiapi, where it has been practiced since 1940. The dance reflects the relationship between nature and everyday life through symbolic movements. Its opening backward step represents the traditional process of planting rice, illustrating the close connection between the community and its agricultural heritage.

The cultural significance of Sapin Bagan was further acknowledged in 2022, when it was inscribed as an Indonesian Intangible Cultural Heritage (WBTB) in the performing arts category by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology of Indonesia. The recognition highlights the importance of preserving this traditional art form for future generations.

With 7,750 women performing together, the event earned official recognition from MURI (Indonesian World Records Museum) as the largest Sapin Bagan dance performance by female participants. Beyond the record itself, the achievement reflects Rokan Hilir's commitment to preserving its Malay cultural heritage while ensuring that this traditional dance continues to be appreciated and passed down across generations.

 

Tags: MURI

 

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