BELAGA: Team Anek Murai 2 from Uma Sekapan Piit was crowned King of the River (Raja Sungai) after paddling to glory before a jubilant crowd at the Belaga Regatta 2025.
The much-anticipated men’s 30-paddler final saw the powerhouse crew surge ahead in the last stretch, sealing their title and taking home the championship trophy along with a RM20,000 cash prize.
It was a double celebration for Uma Sekapan Piit, with Team Anek Murai 1 securing second place, while Sekapan Matu 2 finished third.
More than 500 local villagers and visiting tourists lined the banks of the Balui River to witness the regatta’s final day yesterday (Aug 10).
This year’s races featured six fiercely contested categories: men’s closed 15-paddler, women’s closed 10-paddler, men’s closed and open 20-paddler, men’s open 15-paddler, and the marquee men’s 30-paddler race for the King of the River crown.
Adding to the festival atmosphere, traditional games drew lively participation, with events such as blowpipe, batak lampung, and tug-of-war bringing both competition and laughter to the riverside.
Deputy Digital Minister and Hulu Rajang MP Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong officiated the prize-giving ceremony.
