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Minister Visits East Lombok to Boost Fishermen’s Welfare

Lombok Zone – On Friday, February 27, 2026, Indonesia’s Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, embarked on a work visit to Ekas Buana Village in Jerowaru District, East Lombok. Accompanied by NTB’s Acting Regional Secretary Lalu Moh Faozal and East Lombok Regent Haerul Warisin, the Minister reviewed the facilities at the Red and White Fishermen’s Village.

During the visit, Minister Trenggono inspected the cold storage facility and ice manufacturing plant, emphasizing the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of local fishermen. He highlighted the area’s significant fisheries potential, especially in lobster commodities, and encouraged fishermen to transition from selling lobster seeds to cultivating them for higher added value.

“We will also assist with 10 fishing boats and machinery. If you are catching lobster seeds, do not sell them; instead, cultivate them. If you lack farming nets, just request them from the Director General, and we will distribute them directly,” the Minister firmly stated in front of the fishermen.

Regent Haerul Warisin expressed his appreciation for the support from the central government, noting that the Red and White Fishermen’s Village’s existence is strategic for enhancing marine tourism and floating culinary experiences in Ekas. However, he also pointed out the urgent needs of the fishermen, including the establishment of a fuel station for fishermen (SPBUN) and the rejuvenation of fishing boat engines.

“The presence of the Red and White Fishermen’s Village greatly supports our tourism. However, there are still shortcomings; firstly, we need the SPBUN and replacements for damaged boat engines. Hopefully, we can receive assistance, especially with this 10-ton storage facility, allowing fishermen to avoid selling their catches at low prices, controlling prices through cooperative trading systems,” he remarked.

The visit was also attended by the Deputy Regent of West Lombok, Nurul Adha, the Head of the NTB Marine and Fisheries Office, Muslim, and various officials from the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries.

March 1, 2026
Hobicon Student Olympiad 2026 Set to Inspire Young Minds in NTB
Lombok Zone – In a significant move to enhance the educational experience and foster a spirit of academic competition among students, Inspira and HOBICON have officially launched the Hobicon Student Olympiad 2026, targeting the Province of West Nusa Tenggara.

Carrying the theme “Learn. Compete. Shine.”, this event is aimed at creating an educational competition that provides students with the opportunity to develop their potential, boost their self-confidence, and cultivate a healthy competitive spirit from an early age.

Event Details

The Hobicon Student Olympiad 2026 is scheduled for:
- Date: Saturday, April 4, 2026
- Location: Sekolah Nasional 3 Bahasa Budi Luhur
- Region: Province of West Nusa Tenggara
This competition welcomes participants from various educational levels, including:
- Kindergarten Level
- Level A (Grades 1–2 SD/MI)
- Level B (Grades 3–4 SD/MI)
- Level C (Grades 5–6 SD/MI)
- Level D (Grades 7–9 SMP/MTs)
The subjects contested will encompass:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Science
Each category will be evaluated based on the specific level and subject matter to ensure a fair and proportional competitive system.

Awards and Recognition

To recognize participants’ achievements, the committee has prepared various awards, including:
- Trophies for the Top 5 in each subject and level
- Championship Certificates
- Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medals
- A unit of electric bicycle for the Top Scorer
- Three tablets for overall champions in each level (Kindergarten, Elementary, Junior High)
- Giveaways from sponsors and official HOBICON merchandise
Furthermore, all participants will receive a participation certificate, support medals, shopping vouchers, stickers, and a freepass for HOBICON as a token of appreciation for their active involvement.

The registration fee is set at IDR 115,000 per subject per level. Interested individuals can register through the official website hobicon.id or contact the committee at:
- 0819-1702-0787 (Miss Yuni)
- 0878-5495-9488 (Miss Rahma)
With the Hobicon Student Olympiad 2026, the organizers aim to contribute to building a competitive, sportsmanlike, and inspiring academic culture within the educational environment of NTB. This event is expected to be a catalyst for encouraging the younger generation to continue learning, compete healthily, and confidently showcase their best abilities.
February 28, 2026
Discover Sukma Rasa: A Culinary Gem in Lombok

Sukma Rasa: A Must-Visit Dining Spot

Lombok Zone – If you’re in Lombok, particularly on TGH Lopan Street in Labuapi, make sure to visit Sukma Rasa, a local restaurant renowned for its delicious grilled chicken. The inviting atmosphere and great cuisine make it a popular choice among residents and tourists alike.

The highlight of Sukma Rasa is undoubtedly their grilled chicken, which is celebrated for its marinated flavor and perfectly cooked texture. Each bite delivers a burst of savory goodness that keeps patrons returning for more.

In addition to the delectable chicken, the restaurant offers a variety of other dishes that cater to different tastes, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy sides or refreshing salads, Sukma Rasa has a diverse menu that won’t disappoint.

Accessibility is another aspect that sets Sukma Rasa apart. The establishment is equipped with facilities such as a mushola (prayer room) and toilet, making it a comfortable stop for families and travelers. The thoughtful amenities enhance the dining experience, allowing guests to relax and enjoy their meals without any hassle.

Moreover, the cozy ambiance of Sukma Rasa adds to its charm. The warm, welcoming decor creates a pleasant environment suitable for casual dining. Whether you’re enjoying a meal with friends or having a family gathering, the restaurant’s atmosphere adds to the overall enjoyment.

Don’t forget to take advantage of the friendly staff who are always ready to assist with recommendations and ensure you have a great dining experience. Their dedication to customer service is evident, making visits even more enjoyable.

In summary, Sukma Rasa is more than just a place to eat; it’s a delightful culinary experience. From the tasty grilled chicken to the accommodating facilities, it promises a satisfying outing for anyone exploring the vibrant flavors of Lombok. Mark your calendars and drop by Sukma Rasa on your next trip!

February 28, 2026
Minister and Governor Review Development of Bima Hospital
Lombok Zone – On February 27, 2026, Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin and West Nusa Tenggara Governor H. Lalu Muhamad Iqbal visited the City of Bima to assess the progress of the Bima Hospital’s development. This visit aimed to ensure that the hospital’s construction, medical equipment procurement, and human resource readiness are aligned with the standards set for upgrading the facility.

Both the central and local governments affirmed their commitment to enhance the Bima Hospital, transforming it into a referral center for eastern NTB. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to improve access and quality of referral services across Sumbawa Island. It includes upgrading the Bima Hospital to Type C status and enhancing H.L. Manambai Abdul Kadir Hospital to Type B, as stipulated in Ministry of Health Regulation No. 3 of 2020 concerning Hospital Classification and Licensing.

During the visit, Minister Sadikin emphasized the importance of on-site verification to ensure that the hospital’s physical development meets the necessary standards for optimal functionality. With better facilities, medical equipment, and an improved healthcare workforce, the residents of Sumbawa Island, particularly in Dompu and Bima, will no longer need to travel to Mataram for specialized services.

In addition, Governor Iqbal expressed gratitude to the central government for its continued support in strengthening the services at Bima Hospital. He noted that this support aligns with the NTB Provincial Government’s efforts to enhance the provincial hospitals on Sumbawa Island, including strengthening H.L. Manambai Abdul Kadir Hospital as part of a more equitable regional referral system.

From Political Commitment to Policy Design

During their campaign, the Iqbal-Dinda pairing promised to improve healthcare equity for the people of Sumbawa, Sumbawa Barat, Dompu, and Bima City. This commitment is now being transformed into concrete policies aimed at bolstering referral hospitals on Sumbawa Island to reduce reliance on services in Mataram.

Currently, specialized services such as cardiac interventions, cancer chemotherapy, and hemodialysis still require patients to be referred to Lombok. This dependency results in long wait times, additional costs, and the risk of delays in medical care, highlighting the need for a stronger Bima Hospital as a corrective measure for service disparities.

Healthcare Challenges in NTB

NTB faces a huge healthcare burden, with major causes of premature mortality being cancer, stroke, and tuberculosis, alongside non-communicable diseases and stunting. With a population of approximately 5.66 million, the province contends with significant health-related challenges:
- Cancer: 83-192 thousand DALY per year
- Stroke: 80-118 thousand DALY
- Tuberculosis: 72-140 thousand DALY
- Stunting: about 131 thousand DALY
- Heart disease: 40-69 thousand DALY
The economic loss from health issues in NTB is estimated to be between Rp18–25 trillion annually, indicating that health matters are not just social concerns but also economic productivity issues. Disparities in service distribution between Lombok and Sumbawa exacerbate these challenges. Many specialized services are still concentrated in Mataram, leading patients from Sumbawa to travel hundreds of kilometers, often while unwell.

Capacity of Bima Hospital: Before and After

Prior to its upgrade, Bima Hospital had:
- 98 beds serving approximately 166,992 residents
- 7 outpatient clinics
- Limited ICU and NICU
- Basic specialist human resources
The bed-to-population ratio was inadequate, necessitating an increase of 70–100 beds. With improvements, the capacity is expected to rise to around 230 beds, featuring:
- 14 outpatient clinics
- ICU, NICU, and ICVCU
- Central operating room
- Comprehensive laboratory facilities
- Modern emergency department with zonation system
Advanced equipment like Cathlab, CT Scan, Mamography, and Hemodialysis will enhance service competency in line with Type C hospital standards.

Strengthening Human Resources and Equipment

To ensure competency-based upgrades, the government will enhance human resources with specialists in oncology, urology, neurosurgery, interventional neurology, and anesthesiology. Additional medical equipment will include:
- PCR machines
- Immunology analyzers
- Blood chemical analyzers
- Electroencephalography (EEG)
Support facilities will comprise transport ambulances and stroke and cancer wards. This approach indicates that hospital upgrades are not merely administrative but clinically prepared.

Measurable Policy Targets

Post-upgrade, the government aims for:
- A bed ratio nearing 1.44 per 1,000 residents
- Controlled Bed Occupancy Rate (BOR) around 75%
- Significantly reduced patient wait times
- Reduced referrals to Mataram for specific cases
- Enhanced regional healthcare cost efficiency
By strengthening Bima Hospital and upgrading H.L. Manambai Abdul Kadir Hospital to Type B, Sumbawa Island is expected to establish a more independent and efficient regional referral system.

Strategic Meaning for Sumbawa Island

The enhancement of Bima Hospital as the eastern NTB referral center signifies a policy stance that healthcare should not be concentrated on just one island. The government must guarantee equal access for all citizens, including those in eastern NTB. With the elevation of Bima Hospital and H.L. Manambai Abdul Kadir Hospital, Sumbawa Island now lays the groundwork for a stronger and more autonomous regional referral system. This initiative may not resolve all challenges, but it clearly outlines a policy direction aimed at improving service accessibility, expediting treatment, and ensuring health justice for the people of Sumbawa Island.
February 28, 2026
Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Visits Lombok to Boost Coastal Economy

Lombok Zone – The Vice Governor of West Nusa Tenggara, Hj. Indah Dhamayanti Putri, S.E, welcomed the Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries of Indonesia at the Zainuddin Abdul Majid International Airport in Lombok. Accompanied by the Acting Secretary of NTB and the Head of the NTB Marine and Fisheries Office, the minister’s arrival signals an important initiative for the region.

Following the warm reception, the group proceeded to a local mosque for Friday prayers before heading to witness the construction site of the Red and White Fisherman Village (Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih, KNMP) in Ekas Buana Village, located in the Jerowaru District of East Lombok.

This working visit is part of a broader effort to enhance the government’s priority programs in the marine and fisheries sector. The focus is on strengthening the blue economy, improving the welfare of fishermen, and ensuring successful implementation of the KNMP development programs across NTB.

By engaging directly with local fishermen and inspecting the site, the minister hopes to promote tangible outcomes that will boost coastal economic growth and reinforce the independence of fishing communities in West Nusa Tenggara.

February 28, 2026
Lombok Tengah Official Highlights Villa Construction as Flood Trigger

Lombok Zone – On February 24, 2026, Lalu Pathul Bahri, the Regent of Lombok Tengah, raised concerns regarding the surge in villa constructions on the hills, particularly in Kuta Village, Pujut District. He pointed to these developments as a significant factor contributing to the flooding in the Mandalika Special Economic Zone.

Pathul shared preliminary analyses indicating that sedimentation caused by soil erosion from the hills was a primary cause of the flooding. This erosion has led to excessive water flow, overwhelming local residential areas.

“The sedimentation was indeed a trigger for what happened recently. We promptly mobilized teams equipped with heavy machinery to address the issue,” Pathul stated during a meeting in Praya on February 27, 2026.

The Lombok Tengah government is currently in the process of identifying the owners of the buildings under construction in the Mandalika area. According to Pathul, the majority of these constructions lack the necessary permits from local authorities.

“The land on these hills belongs to the community, and we are unaware of the transactions for its sale. These foreign investors are also neglecting to secure the required permits. That’s why we intend to call them in for discussions,” he added.

Pathul expressed frustration as many property owners have disregarded warning letters issued by the local government. He has tasked the Regent’s Expert Staff with conducting a comprehensive data collection.

Moreover, he acknowledged that the rapid influx of investment in Lombok Tengah has fueled the construction boom, but the government is keen to prevent a situation that could lead to long-term disasters.

The recent flooding has also been exacerbated by six consecutive days of heavy rainfall. According to reports from the Lombok Tengah Government, over 1,500 residents have been affected, with some needing to evacuate.

The local government has deployed personnel as part of a task force to expedite flood response efforts, including clearing fallen timber that has obstructed access for residents.

February 27, 2026
Discover the Delight of Gibung Crab in Ampenan

Delicious Seafood at Gibung Crab

Lombok Zone – If you’re looking for a unique seafood experience, look no further than Gibung Crab in Ampenan. Renowned for its delectable offerings, this establishment has quickly become a must-visit for seafood lovers in the area.

What sets Gibung Crab apart is not only the quality of its dishes but also the affordability. Here, you can indulge in a wide variety of seafood delights without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the prices are friendly and the flavors are unforgettable.

The restaurant’s strategic location makes it easily accessible for those traveling through the bustling streets of Ampenan. Plus, it boasts ample parking space, allowing you to enjoy your dining experience without the hassle of finding a spot for your vehicle.

A Menu That Entices

The menu at Gibung Crab is designed to satisfy every palate. From the flavorsome crab dishes that the restaurant is named after to an array of other seafood options, there’s something for everyone. Diners rave about the freshness of the ingredients, which are sourced daily to ensure peak flavor and quality.

Many patrons highly recommend trying the signature crab meals, often praised for their rich taste and delightful presentation. Additionally, side dishes and accompaniments complement the seafood offerings perfectly, making each meal a complete experience.

Join the Seafood Craze

As the popularity of Gibung Crab continues to grow, it’s clear that this seafood stop is here to stay. So, if you’re in Ampenan and craving a delicious meal, consider giving Gibung Crab a try. With its inviting atmosphere, affordable pricing, and a menu that celebrates the sea, you’re sure to leave satisfied.

February 27, 2026
Taman Ayu Village: A Focus for NTB’s Empowerment Program
Lombok Zone – The village of Taman Ayu in the Gerung District has recently become a focal point in the West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) provincial government’s “Empowered Village” initiative. This area, rich in unique geographical traits, boasts significant tourism potential but faces a variety of complex economic and environmental challenges.

During his visit on Thursday, February 26, 2026, NTB Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal emphasized that addressing poverty in Taman Ayu requires a comprehensive approach rather than piecemeal solutions. He introduced the concept of “Orchestration and Collaboration” to unify various existing programs that previously operated in isolation.

“Poverty is a multifaceted phenomenon. We cannot tackle just one aspect, like waste management or disaster relief, and expect to eradicate poverty completely. All stakeholders — from the provincial and district levels to villages and private sectors — must work harmoniously together,” he asserted.

Governor Iqbal detailed initial steps, which included verifying extreme poverty data. Out of an estimated 7,000 individuals, the actual number verified by supporting teams was found to be around 4,000.

To tackle these issues, the provincial government has developed two intervention schemes:
- Village Level: An allocation of approximately Rp 500 million aimed at strengthening village infrastructure and harnessing local potential.
- Family Level: Direct interventions aimed at meeting the needs of targeted households.
“Our focus is on food security and tourism. I urge village assistants not to start from scratch but to gather the existing pieces from programs like PKH or previous village initiatives,” he added.

On the other hand, Taman Ayu’s village chief, Muhammad Tajudin, shared insights about the village’s geography, bordered by two major rivers, the Babak and Dodokan, and adjacent to the sea on the west and mountains on the east. Despite its natural beauty, each hamlet within Taman Ayu possesses a wealth of artistic traditions, including Wayang, Gamelan, Gendang Beleq, and weaving.

However, Tajudin expressed deep concern over severe coastal erosion that has claimed approximately 70 hectares of beachfront, affecting 10 to 20 hectares of private land. “The erosion is drastic, shaping a crescent-like pattern when viewed on the Lombok map. We have communicated with the provincial authorities, but the costs of building a breakwater are substantial. Even the previously planted pine trees and existing groins have been swept away by the sea,” he explained.

In addition to erosion, air pollution from the material trucks and coal dust around the PLTU site, along with garbage odors, pose challenges that undermine the appeal of this beautiful village.

In line with the governor’s vision, Chief Tajudin noted their focus on addressing poverty among the most vulnerable groups. Taman Ayu has now established formal structures, including a Disability Forum and an Equal School Forum for women to ensure these groups remain empowered and included in the development process.

The visit concluded with a lively discussion involving the Governor, provincial OPD officials, West Lombok government representatives, and local residents to formulate concrete steps to address coastal erosion and capitalize on Taman Ayu’s tourism potential as a catalyst for local economic growth.
February 27, 2026
Local Cooperatives in NTB Urged to Embrace Business Transformation and Seize Opportunities

Lombok Zone – The government of West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) is actively encouraging local cooperatives to evolve into robust business entities. A significant opportunity lies within the national Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program, which has recently been launched in the region.

During his address to the members of the Merah Putih Cooperative at Jembatan Kembar, Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal emphasized that cooperatives should be viewed as business institutions rather than social organizations. He urged members to shift their mindset and recognize that the success of a cooperative is dependent on the active participation of its members in transactions and the development of business units.

“Cooperatives are business institutions founded by and for the members. I commend the Merah Putih Cooperative for taking the initiative to distribute essential commodities. This marks a promising start towards becoming a larger business entity,” he remarked during his visit to the KDMP Jembatan Kembar Timur Lembar on Thursday, February 26, 2026.

To bolster capital strength, it was highlighted that a pool of Rp30 billion in People’s Business Credit (KUR) is currently available at Bank NTB, specifically designated for cooperatives and small-medium enterprises (SMEs). This low-interest funding is expected to act as a catalyst for cooperatives to elevate their business operations through well-structured business proposals.

Governor Iqbal also stressed the importance of cooperatives’ involvement in the MBG program. Currently, there are over 800 MBG kitchens operating in NTB. However, local farmers supply only 30 percent of the egg demand, with the remainder coming from external sources.

“This is a golden opportunity. Cooperatives can act as aggregators for the produce from their members’ households to supply the MBG kitchens. The demand is already established; it’s just about how cooperatives manage their supply chain,” he explained.

Besides eggs, other commodities like chicken, milk, and bread present additional opportunities within the government’s food security framework.

In conclusion, he encouraged all members to cultivate a sense of ownership towards their cooperatives by prioritizing shopping within their own cooperative instead of turning to modern retail outlets. This strategy is aimed at keeping economic circulation within the membership, ultimately benefiting them through the distribution of profit shares.

Meanwhile, H. Ismail Darwan, the head of Jembatan Kembar Timur village, expressed his gratitude during his address, appreciating the governor’s visit, which he described as a long-awaited gesture of the provincial government’s commitment to rural development.

“Thank goodness, our mothers have been patiently waiting to see the governor. We, as a community, extend our warm welcome and gratitude for your willingness to see our conditions firsthand,” he said.

On the same occasion, Rustam Thamrin, the chairman of KDMP Jembatan Kembar Timur, reported on the cooperative’s progress. He explained that KDMP was established as a swift response to the President’s directive regarding food self-sufficiency.

“Since May, we have swiftly recruited 96 members. Initially relying on a starting fund of Rp10 million, we began our business operations in September. Our management is dedicated, working through all weather conditions to procure goods from Bulog to serve our members,” Rustam reported.

He added that in January, they secured a loan agreement of Rp25 million from Bank NTB to scale their business further. “With this significant capital, profits started to become evident. We are highly motivated to keep progressing,” he asserted.

February 27, 2026
Governor Ensures Affordable Prices During Ramadan in NTB

Lombok Zone – As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, the Governor of West Nusa Tenggara, Dr. H. Lalu Muhamad Iqbal, is taking proactive measures to ensure that essential goods remain affordable and that the food supply is stable. His efforts were evident during a working visit and community engagement on February 26, 2026, in West Lombok.

During his visit to Gerung Market, the Governor, affectionately known as Miq Iqbal, engaged with local vendors and shoppers while closely monitoring the prices of basic commodities. He noted that inflation in certain areas was largely driven by spikes in chili prices across three districts: East Lombok, Central Lombok, and West Lombok.

“Inflation has risen due to increasing chili prices in these regions. Interestingly, even within a single market, price discrepancies can occur. I have spoken with enumerators to ensure they record the lowest prices available,” the Governor stated.

He clarified that the prices for meat generally remained in line with reference prices, although there was a slight increase in chicken prices due to rising costs at the supplier level.

“Fortunately, the prices for meat are still consistent with reference points. Chicken prices have seen a minor increase due to the rising cost of live chickens. We will coordinate with suppliers and relevant parties to ensure smooth distribution,” he emphasized.

The Governor also reassured the public that prices for cooking oil, rice, and onions remain under control. However, the price increases for chili are affected by seasonal factors and unpredictable weather conditions, leading to crop failures in several areas.

“Chili is not a commodity that can be directly intervened with like rice, cooking oil, and sugar. Its price mechanism is heavily influenced by supply and demand, especially since many farmers are facing crop failures due to weather challenges,” he explained.

Despite these challenges, the provincial government continues to work on stabilizing the market. They are encouraging distributors and business operators to source supplies from outside the region and are providing subsidies for transportation costs.

“We have urged distributors from Central Lombok and East Lombok to procure supplies from other areas. We are even offering free transportation support for trucks moving goods from Java to NTB through the Food Agency, aiming to keep prices accessible for the community,” the Governor added.

To further assist residents, the NTB Provincial Government is organizing affordable basic goods markets at various locations throughout Ramadan.

“Our goal is to ensure that the community can observe Ramadan peacefully, without worrying about rising prices for essential items,” concluded the Governor.

The NTB Provincial Government will continue to monitor price developments and take swift, measured actions to maintain the stability of supply and price affordability for all residents.

February 27, 2026
NTB Governor Encourages Red and White Cooperative to Boost Local Food Supply

Lombok Zone – The Governor of West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), Lalu Muhamad Iqbal, has urged the Red and White Cooperative (Kopdes) to play an essential role as a supplier of food items for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program in the region.

This call to action came during his visit to the Kopdes in Tegal Maja, located in Tanjung District, North Lombok, on the afternoon of February 25, 2026. Iqbal emphasized the significant economic opportunities that the local cooperatives can seize from this national program.

He highlighted the high demand for essential food supplies, such as eggs and meat, to support the MBG initiative in NTB. Currently, local egg producers can only meet about 30% of the region’s needs, with the remainder being imported from Java. With the MBG program set to increase the demand further, there is a risk that external supplies could become increasingly limited.

“Focus on supplying for MBG only. There is nearly 6 trillion IDR circulating in the MBG program. This presents a tremendous economic opportunity for our region,” stated Iqbal.

He noted that by 2026, funds circulating in NTB through this flagship program from President Prabowo Subianto would reach 5.7 trillion IDR, exceeding the NTB Regional Revenue and Expenditure Budget (APBD). Iqbal warned that the influx of central government funds should not flow out of the region due to NTB’s unpreparedness for being a supplier. He insists that local cooperatives must take the lead to ensure that the economic benefits are realized by the local community.

As the former Indonesian Ambassador to Turkey, he also mentioned that Bank NTB Syariah has allocated a Credit for People’s Business (KUR) budget of 30 billion IDR for cooperatives and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This funding can be utilized by Kopdes to submit loan proposals as initial capital to establish livestock businesses capable of meeting the needs of the MBG.

“We are currently designing the credit distribution plan; Bank NTB is also open for KUR disbursement to ensure this program is directed and precise,” he explained. Iqbal added that once the business proposals are ready, cooperatives can promptly apply for loans from Bank NTB Syariah for swift capital disbursement.

Meanwhile, Martinom, the Chairman of Kopdes Tegal Maja, revealed that the cooperative is currently engaged in two types of businesses: rice and LPG sales. Following the governor’s directive, he acknowledged the substantial potential for livestock farming in his village. Currently, there are several broiler and layer chicken farms in operation, although funding challenges have hindered further business development.

“From the start, we have been eyeing the MBG potential. If we had been provided with soft funding early on, we could prioritize building chicken coops,” stated Martinom.

It is known that Kopdes Merah Putih Tegal Maja currently has 26 members, but interest from the community is high, with around 200 people wanting to join. In addition to funding constraints, the cooperative is also dealing with land issues for establishing their store. They hope these land issues can be resolved soon so that the cooperative can fully realize its business potential.

February 27, 2026
NTB Governor Engages with Extreme Poverty in Sigar Penjalin Village

Lombok Zone – On February 25, 2026, the Governor of West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), Lalu Muhamad Iqbal, visited the impoverished residents of Sigar Penjalin village in North Lombok District. His visit aimed to distribute essential food supplies and cash assistance while checking on the implementation of the Empowered Village Program, designed to combat poverty.

Sigar Penjalin has been identified as a key area for this initiative. Accompanied by various local government organizations and Baznas NTB, Iqbal personally assessed the living conditions of families, including children facing severe economic hardships.

During his visit, Iqbal highlighted the significant potential of Sigar Penjalin, strategically positioned near Lombok’s tourist attractions. The area boasts attractions such as Sire Beach, luxury villas, premium hotels, a golf course, and a mini zoo. Despite its potential, extreme poverty persists among some residents.

“The potential here is immense, but I’ve seen firsthand that many still suffer from dire poverty. Their circumstances are challenging and require collaborative and well-organized intervention,” Iqbal stated.

Iqbal elaborated on the Empowered Village Program, which will intervene at both the village and family levels. Village facilitators have already pinpointed key issues, including a high number of youth without stable employment.

The core objective of this program is to ensure that each family has a reliable source of income within a year. “Our goal is for every household to achieve financial independence and stable income in the next year. That’s the essence of tackling poverty,” he explained.

In addition to economic assistance, the program will address educational issues, waste management, and village spatial planning. This year, the Empowered Village initiative is targeting 40 villages classified as extremely poor.

Regarding the allocation of the Rp500 million stimulus per village, Iqbal emphasized that spending should be driven by the actual needs of the community. Local governments, along with support teams, are tasked with identifying programs that can effectively boost the local economy.

“Everything must be based on a bottom-up approach, reflecting the villagers’ own identification of needs. It’s the responsibility of village heads and facilitators to determine what will serve as an economic lever,” he said.

Moreover, Iqbal noted that support will come not only from the provincial government but also from the central government, local authorities, civil society organizations, and universities.

Earlier, Iqbal expressed that the Empowered Village Program is a solution-oriented initiative characterized by its collaborative and orchestrated nature. “Don’t think you can solve these village issues alone; it’s impossible,” he emphasized while addressing the village facilitators.

In closing, Iqbal urged that the presence of village facilitators should be felt by the community, encouraging engagement and consultation with existing support personnel. “You are not designed to solve village problems alone. There are various support systems already in place. Collaborate with them; that is the hallmark of the Empowered Village Program,” he affirmed.

Zawil Fadli, the head of Sigar Penjalin village, expressed hope for intensive intervention from the NTB provincial government to address extreme poverty in his village, stating, “We hope our impoverished residents can be assisted through empowering programs, so that we can resolve poverty issues in our village as soon as possible.”

February 25, 2026