Lombak Colop: Torch Run Brings Ramadan Nights Alive In Sri Aman

By Ammar Shafiq Hamzah

SRI AMAN, March 18 (Bernama) -- The sight of a group of youths running while carrying flaming torches, cheered on by enthusiastic supporters along the route, has become a unique highlight in villages around Sri Aman during the final nights of Ramadan.

The tradition, known as ‘Lombak Colop’, lights up the night with glowing torches and spirited chants, creating a festive atmosphere akin to a marathon race.

Lingga assemblyman Dayang Noorazah Awang Sohor said the tradition resembles a relay race or pass-the-baton concept, where participants run with a lit torch before handing it over to the next runner.

She said the race is a long-standing tradition passed down through generations, dating back to the 1980s.

“This event is held annually in the Sri Aman area. We continue this tradition to preserve the heritage left by earlier generations.

“In addition, the objective of this programme is to strengthen ties among villagers, including neighbours from other villages. The event is also organised specifically for youths, as they are now more inclined towards gaming and tend to be introverted. This run offers a healthy social activity,” she told Bernama.

She said this after attending the Lombak Colop competition organised by the Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) of Kampung Hulu, Jalan Pasir Panas here last night.

Commenting on the competition in Kampung Hulu, Dayang Noorazah said three categories were contested, each with different race distances.

“At Kampung Hulu, we have children, adult and open categories. For instance, the children’s category tonight involved a 400-metre run. Safety factors were also taken into account and we obtained a permit from the police,” she said.

-- BERNAMA