Cecah Inai Dance of Anambas Regency, Riau Islands - Indonesia

For any travelers, watching traditional dances is both meaningful and interesting. Here is an example. The name is Cecah Inai Dance and it belongs to Anambas Regency. Being one of the allures of the region, it never fails to impress tourists or visitors. However, the locals only perform it during a special occasion, especially during weddings. No wonder, the dance has become the part of the wedding procession of Melayu People for decades (since the 13th century). Thus, tourists should come at the right time and take advantage of a local guide in order to get the chance to watch the performance.

About Cecah Dance
According to the locals, Cecah Inai Dance is performed when the groom comes to the bride’s side. Once the couple unites, both parents give a prayer and apply Henna dye to them alternately. Not to mention they would spray fragrance and sprinkle flowers to the wedding couple. During the ritual, some artists would play music instruments (including violin, gong, & tambours) and sing a unique song as well. As for the dancers, they are males wearing traditional clothes and a Moslem cap.

Enjoying Cecah Inai Dance
Before watching the dance, it is better to learn some information regarding the history of the performance. According to the locals, the dance once became an attraction to welcome respected guests. At the time, the musicians only use two types of instruments which are a Gong and tambours. As the time goes by, the dance becomes more common among villagers and it turns into a regular feature of local weddings these days. Even tourists are allowed to watch the performance when visiting Anambas!

Aside from the unique movements, Cecah Inai Dance also features a unique play of tambours. The musicians play it so well, astonishing all the audience for sure. They call such technique as “Main Nyabuk” or it is often called “Gendang Siantan”. Not to mention it involves numerous types of beating techniques like Semulang, Arak-Arak, Kedidi, Kuntum, Serame, Anak Dagang, and Kerbau Belage. These techniques combine well with both the dance movements and other musical instruments!

As for tourists, they need to come with a local guide in order to find the right time to watch Cecah Inai Dance. This service is quite helpful for foreigners, for sure. Aside from this consideration, tourists must pay attention to their attitude during the performance. Causing loud noises or havoc is indeed prohibited. Everyone should respect the ritual, after all. Taking pictures during the show, but it is better to ask for permission first from the management.

Other Cultural Attractions

• Gasing Game
• Cual Fabric
• Gubang Dance

How to Get There
From Letung City, tourists need to visit Perintis Port and rent a boat to get to Siantan Island. Their destination is none other than Siantan Island (where Cecah Inai Dance is common). Once arriving at Tarempa Port, they can visit nearby villages and start gathering information regarding the performance schedule.

Where to Stay

• Sakura Hotel
• Anambas Resort
• Konyok Inn
• Terempak Beach Hotel