Swapping Street Racing for Sprinting: Riau Police's Approach to Engaging Youth in Pekanbaru
Riau Provincial Police have organised a 100-metre sprint race as part of efforts to prevent illegal street racing during the holy month of Ramadan 2026. The humanistic strategy was designed to channel the energy and enthusiasm of young people in Pekanbaru into constructive pursuits.
The initiative was launched by the Traffic Directorate of Riau Provincial Police as a preventive measure against illegal racing and reckless riding during Ramadan. Carrying the theme 'Healthy Body, Strong Spirit', the 100-metre sprint serves as a creative and positive outlet for young people, particularly in the city of Pekanbaru.
The inaugural 100-metre race was held on Saturday evening (21 February 2026), drawing hundreds of youths and members of running communities.
Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan, who attended the event, said the initiative was not merely a sporting occasion but a manifestation of the commitment to the environment and the physical and mental wellbeing of young people in Riau.
Inspector General Herry Heryawan explained that the police wished to offer tangible solutions for teenagers who often find themselves caught up in unproductive activities on the roads.
"We organised this event to provide an alternative to harmful activities such as illegal street racing, motorcycle gangs, and the like. We have united them under one overarching theme: love for the environment and health," said Inspector General Herry in a statement on Sunday (22 February 2026).
The two-star general announced that the event would be held every evening throughout Ramadan. He expressed his appreciation for the collaboration of the entire community in creating a conducive atmosphere during the holy month.
"I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to all the young people of Pekanbaru and the organising committee. The high level of enthusiasm and orderly conduct demonstrate the courtesy and solidarity of our younger generation. This event not only promotes physical health but also serves as an occasion to strengthen community bonds," he said.
Meanwhile, Riau Police Traffic Director Commissioner Jeki Rahmat Mustika explained that the event was deliberately designed to redirect negative energy into far more beneficial activities.
"We want to create a positive space for the younger generation to channel their energy and interests through healthy activities. Through this running competition, young people can showcase their achievements whilst collectively maintaining order on the roads," said Commissioner Jeki.
The nighttime running competition in the city centre is expected to serve as a healthy entertainment alternative for Pekanbaru residents. The Riau Police Traffic Directorate aims to demonstrate that public security and order can be built through relaxed interaction and fair competition.
"Healthy body, strong spirit. We invite all running communities in Pekanbaru to enliven this event. Let us use this momentum to strengthen our togetherness and build a culture of healthy living," he added.
Through the 100-metre sprint competition, it is hoped that young people can demonstrate their achievements and sportsmanship whilst collectively maintaining a safe and orderly public environment.
The event is not solely competition-oriented but also serves as a moment to build a culture of healthy living within the community. Winners received attractive prizes and development grants as a form of recognition for their achievements.
The initiative was launched by the Traffic Directorate of Riau Provincial Police as a preventive measure against illegal racing and reckless riding during Ramadan. Carrying the theme 'Healthy Body, Strong Spirit', the 100-metre sprint serves as a creative and positive outlet for young people, particularly in the city of Pekanbaru.
The inaugural 100-metre race was held on Saturday evening (21 February 2026), drawing hundreds of youths and members of running communities.
Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan, who attended the event, said the initiative was not merely a sporting occasion but a manifestation of the commitment to the environment and the physical and mental wellbeing of young people in Riau.
Inspector General Herry Heryawan explained that the police wished to offer tangible solutions for teenagers who often find themselves caught up in unproductive activities on the roads.
"We organised this event to provide an alternative to harmful activities such as illegal street racing, motorcycle gangs, and the like. We have united them under one overarching theme: love for the environment and health," said Inspector General Herry in a statement on Sunday (22 February 2026).
The two-star general announced that the event would be held every evening throughout Ramadan. He expressed his appreciation for the collaboration of the entire community in creating a conducive atmosphere during the holy month.
"I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to all the young people of Pekanbaru and the organising committee. The high level of enthusiasm and orderly conduct demonstrate the courtesy and solidarity of our younger generation. This event not only promotes physical health but also serves as an occasion to strengthen community bonds," he said.
Meanwhile, Riau Police Traffic Director Commissioner Jeki Rahmat Mustika explained that the event was deliberately designed to redirect negative energy into far more beneficial activities.
"We want to create a positive space for the younger generation to channel their energy and interests through healthy activities. Through this running competition, young people can showcase their achievements whilst collectively maintaining order on the roads," said Commissioner Jeki.
The nighttime running competition in the city centre is expected to serve as a healthy entertainment alternative for Pekanbaru residents. The Riau Police Traffic Directorate aims to demonstrate that public security and order can be built through relaxed interaction and fair competition.
"Healthy body, strong spirit. We invite all running communities in Pekanbaru to enliven this event. Let us use this momentum to strengthen our togetherness and build a culture of healthy living," he added.
Through the 100-metre sprint competition, it is hoped that young people can demonstrate their achievements and sportsmanship whilst collectively maintaining a safe and orderly public environment.
The event is not solely competition-oriented but also serves as a moment to build a culture of healthy living within the community. Winners received attractive prizes and development grants as a form of recognition for their achievements.