Aceh Barat regent halts pole-climbing contest for 81st RI Day
The ban follows broken bones and other injuries in past Independence Day events and is seen as out of step with Acehnese local values.
Aceh Barat Regent Tarmizi has banned the pole-climbing contest in celebrations for the 81st anniversary of RI independence in Aceh Barat. In Meulaboh on Sunday, he said the tradition poses a safety risk after several residents suffered broken bones and other injuries during past Independence Day festivities. Beyond safety concerns, Tarmizi said pole climbing does not fit Acehnese local values from a historical perspective. He asked residents to replace 17 August activities with contests that are safer, more useful and educational. Tarmizi also encouraged involving young people in positive activities such as a fun walk, which he said can build a learning mindset while steering them away from drugs and gambling.