Padang Pariaman Horse Race 2026 Boosts Tourism and Local Economy
West Sumatra Governor Mahyeldi Ansharullah opened the Padang Pariaman Horse Race 2026 event at the Duku Banyak Balah Aia Horse Racing Field in VII Koto Sungai Sariak Subdistrict, Padang Pariaman Regency, on Saturday (28/3). The activity serves as one of the region’s flagship programmes to promote tourism development while enhancing the economic circulation among the community.
In his speech, Mahyeldi expressed appreciation to the Padang Pariaman Regency Government and the All-Indonesia Equestrian Sports Association (PORDASI) for their collaboration in organising the event. He noted that horse racing functions not only as a sports event but also has broad economic impacts for the community.
“This horse racing activity is not only a sports event but also provides significant economic impacts for the community, especially for small and medium enterprises and the tourism sector in West Sumatra,” he stated in a release on Sunday (29/3/2026).
According to Mahyeldi, organising culture-based sports events like horse racing has the potential to increase visits from domestic and international tourists, while also serving as an attraction for expatriates to return to their hometowns.
“This momentum is an important part of our strategy to develop regional tourism through sports events that can attract widespread public attention,” he added.
He hopes that the horse racing championship can continue to be held sustainably, upholding values of sportsmanship, honesty, and togetherness, while providing tangible benefits to the community.
“We want this event to not only succeed as entertainment but also to provide real benefits to the community,” he emphasised.
The Governor also appreciated the role of the Padang Pariaman Regency Government in presenting an activity that attracts participation from expatriates and visitors from various regions.
“Many expatriates return home and contribute to this activity. This becomes a great strength in driving the regional economy and tourism,” he revealed.
On the same occasion, Padang Pariaman Regent John Kenedy Azis expressed the local government’s commitment to making horse racing an annual agenda to strengthen the tourism sector while preserving Minangkabau culture.
“This event will continue to be promoted as an annual agenda that can attract tourists while preserving local culture,” he said.
He explained that the Padang Pariaman Horse Race 2026 took place over two days, from 28–29 March, featuring various competition classes. In addition to the races, the event was enlivened by community entertainment, including a performance by Minang artist Fauzana and the presence of national actor Jefri Nichol, which added to the event’s appeal.
According to him, horse racing is not only a traditional sport but also a moment to strengthen togetherness while boosting community economic circulation.
“We invite the entire community to jointly maintain cleanliness, security, and the success of this event,” he concluded.