Pelalawan, November 3, 2025 — The Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Riau (FISIP UNRI), has established a partnership with the Government of Betung Village, Pangkalan Kuras District, Pelalawan Regency, to promote the preservation of Petalangan Malay culture. The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) took place at the Penghulu Maitun Community Hall, Betung Village, on Monday (3/11).
FISIP UNRI was represented by Robi Armilus, S.Sos., M.Si., Head of the Cooperation Acceleration Team, while the Betung Village Government was represented by Darman, S.E., the Head of Betung Village.
In his remarks, Robi Armilus stated that the signing of the MoU reflects FISIP UNRI’s concern and commitment to making a tangible contribution to the community through the implementation of the Tridharma Perguruan Tinggi (Three Pillars of Higher Education), particularly in the fields of community service and local cultural preservation.
“We chose Betung Village as a partner village because it is the center of Petalangan Malay culture — one of the oldest and most authentic indigenous groups in Riau Province,” Robi explained.
Dean of FISIP UNRI, Dr. Meyzi Hariyanto, S.Sos., M.Si., emphasized that this collaboration marks an important step for the faculty in supporting efforts to preserve the Petalangan Malay culture through research and community engagement activities.
“Through this collaboration, FISIP is committed to contributing to the preservation and revitalization of Petalangan cultural values so that they continue to live and thrive within modern society,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Vice Dean III of FISIP UNRI, Dr. Saiman Pakpahan, S.IP., M.Si., in a separate statement, added that support for the preservation of Petalangan Malay culture will be implemented through various academic activities.
“Students will conduct field practicums in Betung Village to learn more closely about Petalangan Malay culture, while lecturers can carry out research and community service in the area,” he explained.
Head of Betung Village, Darman, S.E., expressed his appreciation for the partnership and welcomed the support from FISIP UNRI.
“As the cultural center of the Petalangan people, Betung Village truly needs support in preserving and developing this heritage, especially in conserving the Betung Lake area — a key site for cultural activities that now requires attention and improvement from local authorities,” he said.
This collaboration is expected to become a strategic step in strengthening cooperation between academia and local communities to safeguard the existence of Petalangan Malay culture as an integral part of Riau’s cultural identity. (RA–Enggy)
