Meet ‘The Reaper’: Indonesian boy goes viral with Pacu Jalur race videos.

Rayyan Arkan Dhika: 11-year-old ‘Reaper’ becomes Indonesia’s tourism ambassador through viral Pacu Jalur boat race videos

The story of Rayyan Arkan Dhika: Indonesia’s 11-year-old cultural icon and aura farmer

Rayyan Arkan Dhika, affectionately known across social media as “The Reaper”, has captured the imagination of millions worldwide.

At only 11 years old, this young boy from Indonesia has emerged as a national and international sensation through a series of electrifying viral videos that showcase his involvement in the traditional Pacu Jalur boat races. These videos, often set to the pulsating soundtrack of “Young Black and Rich” by Melly Mike, have transformed Rayyan into an online icon merging tradition with modern internet culture.

The nickname “The Reaper” stems from his commanding presence in the videos. Clad in traditional race attire and often standing like a captain on the racing boats, Rayyan appears as a fierce, focussed figure—cutting through water like a warrior. Audiences have responded in awe, mesmerised by the stark contrast between his young age and the raw intensity he embodies in the videos.

Pacu Jalur: A cultural heritage revived through social media

The Pacu Jalur is a centuries-old boat race held annually in Kuantan Singingi, Riau, Indonesia. Originally a celebration linked to Islamic holidays and royal ceremonies during the era of Malay kingdoms, the event is now a major cultural highlight in modern Indonesia. Long, narrow boats sometimes stretching over 40 metres are rowed by dozens of participants in synchronised rhythm, cheered on by crowds along the riverbanks.

In recent years, the event has struggled to maintain visibility among younger Indonesians and international audiences. That changed with the rise of Rayyan Arkan Dhika. His videos, often slow-motion clips of him atop the lead boat, have been edited with cinematic flair. The raw beauty of the river, the coordinated energy of the rowers, and the emotion on Rayyan’s face have become a perfect storm for virality.

The role of music: ‘Young Black and Rich’ by Melly Mike

Every viral trend has a soundtrack, and for Rayyan’s story, the song “Young Black and Rich” by Melly Mike has become the unlikely anthem. The song’s bold confidence and catchy rhythm provide a modern, almost rebellious backdrop to the traditional race scenes. The pairing of high-stakes cultural heritage with a gritty, urban musical score is a masterstroke in internet storytelling.

This cross-cultural collaboration between a traditional Indonesian practice and an international hip-hop beat has only added to the content’s appeal. It bridges generations and geographies, making the content both nostalgic and fresh, respectful and irreverent.

From viral star to official ambassador

The viral success didn’t go unnoticed by Indonesian authorities. Earlier this year, Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy officially appointed Rayyan Arkan Dhika as Indonesia’s Tourism Ambassador. The move is more than symbolic; it’s a strategic decision to leverage Rayyan’s global appeal to promote national heritage among younger demographics and foreign audiences.

As part of this appointment, Rayyan has been awarded a full academic scholarship, ensuring that his educational journey will match his rapid rise in popularity. Officials have praised him not just for his charisma, but for organically drawing attention to one of Indonesia’s most treasured traditions.

In a public statement, the Minister of Tourism described Rayyan as “a bridge between the future and the past”, noting that “his videos have done more in a few weeks than many years of state advertising”. His appointment marks a new era in cultural ambassadorship where influence is measured not just in accolades, but in shares, likes, and genuine online engagement.

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Impact on youth and cultural revival

Rayyan’s story is a refreshing reminder of the potential for young people to shape narratives once controlled by traditional institutions. In an age when cultural heritage often struggles to compete with entertainment algorithms, Rayyan’s edits prove that heritage can be entertaining, moving, and viral.

Already, the Pacu Jalur has seen increased interest among youths both locally and abroad. Indonesian TikTok and Instagram users have taken to recreating the videos, mimicking the edits, and even using Melly Mike’s track to tell their own stories. It’s a renaissance built not from policy or textbook history, but from a child’s powerful gaze and the ability of mobile technology to reach the world.

Rayyan has also appeared in interviews with regional broadcasters and has been invited to tourism events across Indonesia. His popularity is inspiring a wave of young content creators to explore and promote their own cultures through video and music.

A blueprint for other nations

What Rayyan Arkan Dhika represents goes beyond personal achievement. His story is a blueprint for how traditional culture can be reimagined and presented on global platforms. Countries with rich but underrepresented heritages, Caribbean countries like Trinidad and Tobago, can learn from this example. The use of short-form video, strong narrative visuals, music with emotional weight, and a charismatic central figure has proven highly effective in global storytelling.

The involvement of state institutions to validate and support such organic movements is critical. Rayyan’s scholarship and official title mean his trajectory is sustainable. It also sends a message to other young talents: the state recognises and rewards those who raise the nation’s profile with authenticity.

What’s next for the reaper?

As the next Pacu Jalur approaches, anticipation builds not just for the races, but for what Rayyan will do next. Will there be more edits? A documentary? A collaboration with other influencers? Whatever the direction, it is clear that Rayyan Arkan Dhika “The Reaper” has already carved his name in Indonesia’s cultural history.

At only 11 years old, he’s become a global face for Indonesian heritage, youth empowerment, and the future of digital storytelling. Whether viewed through the lens of tradition, tourism, or viral marketing, his story is one worth following.

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