The complex was constructed specifically to serve as the venue for the 17th Musabaqah Tilawatil Quran (MTQ) national event.
It features 'Anjungan' houses, which are scaled-down traditional residences representing every regency and city within Riau province.
The central pavilion is noted for its distinctive roof design, which incorporates elements of traditional Malay stilt house architecture.
The site spans a significant urban area that acts as a community plaza, hosting regional festivals and trade exhibitions throughout the year.
It is centrally located on Jalan Jenderal Sudirman, the city's primary artery, near the provincial government complex.
Lapangan Purna MTQ is a prominent cultural complex in Pekanbaru, originally established to host the 1994 National Qur'an Recitation Competition. The site serves as an open-air pavilion and museum hub, showcasing traditional Riau architecture including notable Rumah Adat Melayu buildings. It functions as a multipurpose public space for local events, exhibitions, and regional cultural displays. The grounds are designed to represent the diverse districts of the Riau province through its various architectural structures. The complex acts as a central green space for the city, positioned prominently along the primary thoroughfare. It remains a key landmark for visitors interested in the indigenous Minangkabau and Malay heritage of the region.
The elevated viewing angle facing the primary Rumah Adat Melayu traditional houses.
Visit during the late afternoon to observe the local community activities and avoid the peak midday heat.
Walk through the individual Anjungan houses to see distinct variations in Riau architectural styles.
Bring sun protection, as the open field area provides limited shade.
Avoid visiting during the height of the midday sun due to lack of shade in the main field area.
Maintain modest attire as the site holds cultural and religious significance; refrain from climbing on historic structures.