Today the majority of the population in Lombok is actually Sasak, but when they arrived or where they came from is lost to time. It is likely that these migrant peoples likely first showed up sometime in the 13th or 14th century from Java. The culture today is based on a local version of Islam that has many added elements of Hinduism as well as Wektu Telu tribal beliefs also mixed in. The island is actually across the Lombok Strait from Bali, and was part of the spice trade route during the late Middle Ages.
The area was likely first sighted by the Portuguese in the 16th century, but the Dutch were the first to settle the area, arriving in the eastern part of the island in the 17th century. The western part of the island remained until Balinese control until the end of the 19th century, when the Dutch annexed the whole of the island. This rule under the Balinese greatly influenced the Sasak culture, which today is Islamic with a mix of Hinduism as well.
Following the Dutch annexation, the area of Lombok was part of the Dutch East Indies, and during World War II was occupied by the Japanese from 1942 until 1945. Following the end of the Second World War the area reverted to Dutch control under the independence of Indonesia in 1949. Today Lombok is a popular tourist destination.
Culture:
The island of Lombok in the West Nusa Tenggara province of Indonesia is often compared to Bali, which is actually across the Lombok Strait. And while there are many similarities, the two lands are quite different. The majority of the population in Lombok is actually Sasak, but when they arrived or where they came from is lost to time. It is likely that these migrant peoples likely first showed up sometime in the 13th or 14th century from Java. The culture today is based on a local version of Islam that has many added elements of Hinduism as well as Wektu Telu tribal beliefs also mixed in.
The majority of the population is Sasak, both culturally and linguistically, but there are also members of the Wektu Telu people’s there as well, and these people practice a unique form of Islam. The name of this group actually means “Three Prayers,” and this is because they pray three times a day, instead of the five times as required by the Quran.
The people of Lombok are very polite and the island resort is very welcoming of tourists. It is important to note that this is a Muslim nation, so the standard traditions of Islam should be observed. The left hand for example is considered unclean, and as handshakes are customary for both males and females you should avoid using your left hand to exchange items or carry food. Shoes must be removed when entering a mosque or visiting someone’s home, and women should avoid exposed skin or tight fitting clothing. This is very important when away from the beaches or tourist area. Alcohol does flow in Lombok, but visitors should understand that public intoxication is a serious offense.
Generally however the island of Lombok is one of a unique and old culture, and tourism today is a major part of the economy so visitors should expect a warm greeting, and people that are happy to have you visit their home.
Health & Safety:
Tourism is big business in Lombok and as a result the authorities take crime very seriously. As a result Lombok, as with nearby Bali, it is a generally very safe place to visit. However, you should still be on guard while traveling at night. Avoid unlit streets and try not to travel alone after dark. In fact, while there is no curfew, many locals in the smaller villages tend to head in after the sun goes down.
Watch your possessions while you’re on the go, especially on the crowded buses and while at the beach. Likewise, don’t flash large sums of money and keep a low profile. When exchanging money, or buying items be sure to count the money in front of the moneychanger or clerk, as this is a quick way to trick tourists not familiar with the Indonesian currency.
As Lombok is in a Muslim country you should be prepared to dress appropriately when not on the beach. Women should not travel alone if possible, especially outside of tourist destinations.
When eating local fruit be sure to wash and peel it first, avoid raw vegetables and try and only drink bottled water. And when heading out be sure to wear liberal doses of sunscreen as the local sun can be quite intense.
The nation also has very harsh penalties when it comes to illegal drugs including marijuana and ecstasy. There have been arrests of western tourists in the last few years, and even a small amount of drugs for “personal use” could result in a prison sentence. The best advice is to heed all the local laws and pay attention to the customs.
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