KUCHING: Six hours by boat and six more on land — nothing stops Team Jetski of Kapuas Hulu, representing Team Landas, carrying pride across borders and waters.
Hailing from Jongkong in the Kapuas Hulu district of West Kalimantan, Indonesia, the 71-strong squad, accompanied by six team officials, arrived in Kuching after a gruelling 12-hour journey by river and road to compete in the prestigious Sarawak Regatta 2025.
“Insya-Allah, we hope to bring the title home this year. We have been preparing for a month before travelling here, and the spirit among our paddlers remains strong,” said Muhjir, when met by Sarawak Tribune at the riverbank today.
Competing under the banner of Landas, Team Jetski are participating in multiple international categories, including the Men’s 15-Paddler Open, Men’s 20-Paddler Open, Men’s 25-Paddler Open, and Men’s 30-Paddler Open Piala Antarabangsa , as well as the Men’s 30-Paddler Marathon International (3 km).
Most of the team members, said Muhjir, are fishermen, about 90 per cent of them, with the rest working on plantations.
Their daily lives on the river make them naturally skilled rowers.
“They paddle every day as part of their livelihood. That’s why training them isn’t difficult; they already have the rhythm and strength from their work,” he explained.
This year’s contingent includes paddlers aged between 18 and 41, with six new recruits making their debut in the regatta.
Their journey from Jongkong began with a six-hour boat ride along the Kapuas River to Lanjar, followed by an hour and a half by road to the Immigration, Customs and Quarantine (CIQ) complex at Badau, the official border crossing between Indonesia and Sarawak.
From there, the team continued through Lubok Antu and travelled another three and a half hours by road to reach Kuching, completing a journey of nearly 12 hours across rivers, roads and borders.
Team Jetski’s participation is supported by Landas, which assists with transport and training.
Muhjir expressed gratitude to Landas for helping with logistics and meals throughout the competition.
“Our goal is not only to win, but to represent Kapuas Hulu and strengthen friendship across the border,” Muhjir added.
Team Jetski’s determination and discipline have earned them recognition both in Sarawak and in Kalimantan, where they have become a respected name in longboat racing.
“We hope Team Jetski can continue to grow and represent our region and country with pride. May Allah ease our journey and bless all who take part,” said Muhjir.
Team Jetski’s participation highlights the enduring friendship and sporting spirit shared across the border, while continuing to deliver strong performances as the regatta heats up.
