LOMBOK (LE.ID) – The fire that devastated Sade Traditional Village in Central Lombok has dealt a major blow to tourism and cultural heritage in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB).
Sade has long been one of Lombok’s most prominent cultural tourism icons, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the traditions, architecture and daily life of the Sasak people. But the disaster does not mean cultural tourism in Lombok has come to a halt.
Instead, tourism stakeholders are being encouraged to use the situation as an opportunity to promote other cultural destinations across Lombok and NTB.
The Regional Tourism Promotion Board (BPPD) of NTB says efforts to restore Sade should go hand in hand with measures to ensure that tourist arrivals to the region remain stable.
Ende Offers an Alternative Sasak Experience
One destination that could be promoted more aggressively is Ende Traditional Village in Central Lombok.
Ende preserves elements of traditional Sasak community life, including traditional houses, local customs and cultural practices passed down through generations.
Its proximity to the Mandalika tourism area also gives Ende strong potential to become part of cultural tourism packages for visitors attending major events or holidaying in southern Lombok.
Sukarara, Experiencing Traditional Weaving
Another alternative is Sukarara, widely known for its traditional Sasak weaving.
Visitors can go beyond simply purchasing handmade textiles. They can observe the weaving process, interact with local artisans and learn about the cultural meaning behind traditional motifs.
Such experiences can generate direct economic benefits for local communities while helping preserve traditional craftsmanship.
Bayan, A Cultural Gateway in North Lombok
Bayan Traditional Village in North Lombok is another destination with considerable cultural tourism potential.
The area is known for its distinctive traditions, history and community life. With stronger tourism packaging and promotion, Bayan could offer visitors a different perspective on Lombok’s cultural heritage.
Pringgasela, Culture and Craftsmanship in East Lombok
In East Lombok, Pringgasela provides another opportunity to experience Sasak culture and traditional craftsmanship.
Developing destinations such as Pringgasela could also help spread tourism-related economic benefits beyond the southern part of Lombok.
The four destinations—Ende, Sukarara, Bayan and Pringgasela—have been identified as potential alternatives following the Sade fire, particularly ahead of increased tourist arrivals surrounding the Mandalika MotoGP event.
BPPD: Tourists Should Not Cancel Their Lombok Trips
BPPD NTB spokesperson Abdus Syukur said clear and balanced communication is crucial following the disaster.
Tourists need to understand that Sade is undergoing recovery, but that Lombok and NTB remain open and offer a wide range of attractions.
“Tourists who have already planned trips to Lombok should not feel that they need to cancel their entire journey simply because one destination has suffered a disaster. The alternative is to adjust their itinerary while continuing to support Sade’s recovery,” he said.
According to Syukur, the tourism industry can respond by creating new cultural tourism packages linking several destinations.
A package branded “Sasak Cultural Journey,” for example, could connect Ende, Sukarara, Pringgasela and Bayan, complemented by culinary, nature and village tourism experiences.
Sade Must Remain Part of the Story
Promoting alternative destinations, however, does not mean abandoning Sade.
Sade should remain an important part of NTB’s tourism narrative, particularly as the community begins its recovery.
The rebuilding process should not focus solely on physical structures, but also on protecting cultural identity, documenting heritage and ensuring that the village retains its authenticity.
The fire affected dozens of traditional structures and other facilities that supported the village’s cultural tourism activities, making recovery a significant challenge for the local community.
Turning a Disaster into a Broader Cultural Tourism Strategy
The Sade fire has undoubtedly left a deep scar.
But it also presents an opportunity for NTB to rethink its cultural tourism strategy.
Rather than relying heavily on a single cultural tourism icon, Lombok and NTB can strengthen a broader network of cultural destinations.
Sade has its story.
Ende has its story.
Sukarara has its story.
Bayan has its story.
Pringgasela has its story.
Together, these stories can create a richer and more diverse cultural tourism experience.
The message to international travelers is simple. Sade is recovering. Lombok remains open. NTB remains welcoming. And the journey through the culture of the Sasak people continues.Jika diperlukan, saya juga bisa membuat versi **lebih “international news agency” seperti Reuters/AP**, dengan lead yang lebih tajam, inverted pyramid, kutipan narasumber, dan judul yang lebih kuat untuk media internasional. (*)
