Arakanese traditional boat racing will be held in Ramree Township, Arakan State, from May 15 to 19, according to the organising committee for the traditional Rammarwadi rowing competition.

Only 15 teams took part in previous races and the organising committee is planning to invite boat teams from other townships, said Ko Tun Naing, a member of the organising committee.

“About 20 teams from Ramree Township will participate in the competition. We will invite devotees of the boat race from other townships,” he said.

Funds for the boat race are being raised by selling lucky draws, the organising committee said, urging people to buy the lucky draws to help support the competition financially.

The organising committee said it arranges to award more prizes, including the top three winners.

U Maung Hla Kyi, a resident of Kyet Tha Yay village, said he is preparing to take part in the boat race representing his village.

“We are to participate in the boat race this year. We have to fix the boats now. We are preparing to be ready for the competition,” he said.

The traditional rowing competition has been held in Ramree Township since the Mrauk-U Kingdom era, with occasional periods of hiatus including the three years prior to 2021, when the competition resumed and was also held in May.