RRI.CO.ID, Pekanbaru - The 'Petang Belimau' tradition reclaimed its role as a spiritual centerpiece on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the Pekanbaru City Administration in Riau revived the communal ritual along the historic banks of the Siak River to symbolically welcome the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Moving beyond the mosque courtyards where it was confined last year, the 2026 celebration returned to the iconic Rumah Tuan Kadi, a landmark regarded as the birthplace of Pekanbaru.

The festivities began with a solemn pilgrimage to the tombs of the city’s founders at the Pekanbaru Grand Mosque before the procession continued to the riverfront for the symbolic cleansing rituals.

Acting Governor of Riau, SF Hariyanto, officially inaugurated the event, describing the tradition as a cultural anchor for the region. He emphasized that the ritual embodies gratitude and provides a distinctive way for the people of Pekanbaru to enter Ramadan with purified spirits and open hearts.

“This tradition provides a space for gathering, interacting, and mutual forgiveness,” Hariyanto said during the opening ceremony, as quoted by Antara.

He added that the atmosphere helps dissolve social barriers and encourages reconciliation, allowing the community to embrace Ramadan free of lingering conflict.

At the heart of the celebration was the belimau ceremony, in which lime-infused water was symbolically applied to orphaned children as an act of purification and care.

Pekanbaru Mayor Agung Nugroho highlighted the importance of returning the event to the riverside, noting that while the tradition is an annual fixture, its homecoming to the Tuan Kadi House restores a vital link to the city’s history.

The location beneath the Siak III Bridge drew large crowds eager to take part in the communal bathing ritual. However, the excitement also raised safety concerns, as some residents attempted to dive into the river from the bridge.

Mayor Nugroho voiced his concern over these risky acts, urging the public to prioritize safety. “I am worried because so many people want to jump. We have issued prohibitions from yesterday until this afternoon against leaping from the bridge,” he said.

He instructed the Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) to secure the area, stressing that the arrival of Ramadan should be marked by devotion and reflection, not preventable accidents. ***