Lombok Zone – The Governor of West Nusa Tenggara, H. Lalu Muhamad Iqbal, has called upon the people of NTB to continue fostering a spirit of tolerance, unity, and mutual respect as the Hindu celebration of Nyepi coincides with the Islamic holiday of Idul Fitri. This message was conveyed by the Head of the NTB Communications, Informatics, and Statistics Office, Dr. H. Ahsanul Khalik, during a press briefing in Mataram on March 15, 2026.
Governor Iqbal highlighted that the people of NTB have long embraced a strong tradition of tolerance and respect for the various religious practices within the community. “In NTB, we are accustomed to living in harmony. Tolerance is not merely a slogan but is woven into the fabric of our daily lives. The overlapping occasions of Nyepi and Idul Fitri should serve as a prime example of how we can maintain harmony and respect for one another,” said Khalik, delivering the Governor’s message.
The provincial government has made it clear that there are no restrictions on the Ogoh-ogoh parade for Nyepi or the Takbiran parade for Idul Fitri. Both religious activities can proceed as usual, provided they adhere to public order and mutual understanding within the community.
In Mataram, local authorities have collaborated with Hindu and Islamic leaders, Ogoh-ogoh rally organizers, Takbiran organizers, the Religious Harmony Forum (FKUB), and security forces to ensure smooth execution of both events. Key agreements have been reached regarding the observance of protocols, participant limits—including restrictions on out-of-region attendees—event route management, scheduling, and security oversight.
Security personnel, including Bhabinkamtibmas and Babinsa, will monitor participants from their respective communities until the events conclude. Similar coordination efforts are being carried out in various regions across NTB, including Lingsar and Narmada in West Lombok, as well as Sumbawa and other areas hosting similar activities.
Khalik noted that Governor Iqbal perceives the people of NTB as mature in their religious coexistence, allowing space for one another’s celebrations. Muslims have been accommodating towards the Hindu observances of Nyepi, commencing with the Ogoh-ogoh parade and followed by the Catur Brata Penyepian. Likewise, Hindus are also honoring the Takbiran night and Idul Fitri prayers.
The contributions of religious leaders, community figures, and local officials are deemed crucial in ensuring a tranquil environment. Moreover, the younger generation is encouraged to enhance communication and unity to guarantee that religious events proceed safely and orderly.
The NTB provincial government continues to liaise with district and municipal governments to ensure the seamless execution of the planned activities. Security support is being coordinated with the police and military to mitigate potential disturbances and ensure all events unfold safely and orderly.
As part of his commitment to supporting local religious activities, Governor Iqbal is also expected to attend the Ogoh-ogoh parade’s ceremonial send-off in Mataram. The provincial government hopes that the overlapping celebrations of Nyepi and Idul Fitri will further strengthen the values of tolerance and unity within NTB, setting an example of harmonious religious coexistence for other regions in Indonesia.
