Damar, one of the best surf guides on the Indonesian island of Lombok, feels right at home taking tourists out to sea. With his fluent English and effortless banter, you would never guess what was his childhood fear: foreigners. 'When I was 10 or maybe seven, I used to cry - I used to just pee in my pants when I saw white people,' Damar, now 39, tells the BBC. That diffidence waned as the laidback island he calls home slowly found its popularity among Western travellers. Just east of Bali, Lombok boasts the same azure beaches and stunning views as its famous neighbour, but without the exasperating crowds. Lombok's beaches are still a hidden gem among surfers, as is Mount Rinjani for hikers. Travel sites still liberally use the word 'untouched' to describe the island as they offer reasons to venture beyond Bali. So it should come as little surprise that the Indonesian government has sensed the opportunity to create another lucrative tourist haven on the sprawling archipelago. The mission is to create more 'Balis' - and Lombok will be one of them. For islanders, this promise of 'Balification' is a welcome opportunity but they are also wary of what it brings. And the change has already begun to hit home in more ways than one. Mandalika in the south has been chosen as the heart of the 'new Bali.' Its rustic coastline has already given way to glitzy resorts, cafes and even a racetrack. Earlier this month, nearly 150,000 spectators showed up to watch the motorcycle Grand Prix. However, this rush for development has led to significant displacement of local residents, raising concerns over human rights and cultural preservation. With Lombok now on the verge of becoming a tourist magnet, residents are divided over whether this transformation will be a blessing or a curse.
Lombok: The Emerging Tourist Gem Challenging Bali's Dominance
Lombok: The Emerging Tourist Gem Challenging Bali's Dominance
With stunning beaches and a rich culture, Lombok is poised to become Indonesia's next tourist hotspot. However, rapid development raises concerns among locals about the loss of their heritage and environment.
Lombok island, often overshadowed by Bali, is gaining attention as Indonesia's next big tourist destination with its breathtaking natural beauty and unique culture. The government's initiative to promote 'Bali-fication' has sparked both enthusiasm and concern among residents, who grapple with fears of losing their traditions and the threat of large-scale evictions. While the potential for economic growth exists, local voices express a desire to maintain the island's identity.
