Blog

  • Mendagri Emphasizes Regional Strategy for Inflation Control in 2025

    Mendagri Emphasizes Regional Strategy for Inflation Control in 2025

    Mataram – In response to evolving economic conditions, regional governments in Indonesia are urged to collaborate effectively and devise precise strategies to manage inflation in 2025. This was emphasized by the Minister of Home Affairs, Tito Karnavian, during a coordination meeting organized virtually by the Ministry of Home Affairs on Tuesday, September 2, 2025.

    The meeting was attended by several national officials, including the Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs, Zulkifli Hasan; the Head of the Presidential Office, AM Putranto; the Head of the Presidential Communication Office, Hasan Nasbi; the Head of the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), Amalia Adininggar Widyasanti; and the Head of the National Food Agency, H. Arief Prasetyo Ad. Minister Tito Karnavian urged regional leaders to focus on initiatives that directly address public needs, such as the distribution of rice through the Stabilization of Supply and Food Prices (SPHP) program, conducting affordable market operations, and implementing programs that help stabilize basic commodity prices.

    H. Lalu Alwan Basri, the Regional Secretary of Mataram City, along with Mohammad Reza Nugraha, the Head of the Mataram City Central Statistics Agency, and Andhi Wahyu Riyadno, Deputy Head of the Bank Indonesia Representative Office in West Nusa Tenggara, participated in the meeting from the Kenari Room of the Mataram Mayor’s Office. The officials paid close attention to the Minister’s directives regarding the current national economic situation and strategies for inflation control in 2025.

    The coordination meeting, which included governors, regents, and mayors from across Indonesia, saw Minister Tito Karnavian stress the importance of regional leaders being attuned to the ongoing societal conditions, which are deemed not yet fully stable. He advised local governments to avoid excessive ceremonial activities that could potentially cause public unrest.

  • Fatimah Zahra Inaugurates First Branch Office in Mataram

    Fatimah Zahra Inaugurates First Branch Office in Mataram

    Mataram, the capital city of West Nusa Tenggara Province, is increasingly becoming a hub for business development, offering a secure and welcoming environment for both residents and entrepreneurs. The city’s attractiveness for various industry sectors, including Hajj and Umrah travel services, is evident with the inauguration of Fatimah Zahra’s first branch office in Mataram.

    The new branch, located on Jalan Sriwijaya in Mataram Timur, officially opened on Monday, September 1, 2025. Fatimah Zahra, a specialized Hajj and Umrah travel company headquartered in Semarang, Central Java, aims to expand its services to the local and provincial markets.

    During the inauguration, the Deputy Mayor of Mataram, TGH Mujiburrahman, expressed his appreciation for the company’s presence in the city. He highlighted Mataram’s openness to economic and service sector activities, reinforcing the city’s potential as a significant market for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.

    He encouraged Fatimah Zahra to deliver humanistic services, educating and motivating prospective pilgrims to view Hajj and Umrah as sincere acts of worship, supported by proper religious guidance. “We should be grateful to Allah SWT for having a new alternative for performing Hajj and Umrah, allowing for more flexible scheduling to meet pilgrims’ needs,” he remarked.

    H. Muhammad Rifki Azadi, Chief Executive of Fatimah Zahra, expressed gratitude for establishing the company’s first branch in Lombok. The relationship with Lombok, he noted, has been long-standing, with many of the company’s guides hailing from the region. This connection has been instrumental in maintaining high service standards.

    H. Amrullah, the branch head and a Lombok native, shared that the branch’s opening is a realization of a long-held dream, acknowledging the trust placed in the local community. He emphasized that Hajj and Umrah are spiritual journeys requiring sincere service and guidance based on the Quran and Sunnah.

    The company remains committed to its motto, “Always Ready,” ensuring readiness in intention, knowledge, service, and support for pilgrims, promising never to leave them alone in their spiritual journey.

  • Bros Gerbang Sangkareang: A New Cultural Icon for Mataram

    Bros Gerbang Sangkareang: A New Cultural Icon for Mataram

    The 32nd anniversary of Mataram was marked by a significant cultural milestone with the official recognition of the Bros Gerbang Sangkareang. The copyright certificate for this symbolic brooch was presented to Hj. Kinnastri Mohan Roliskana, Chair of the TP PKK and Dekranasda, by I Gusti Putu Milawati, the Head of the NTB Regional Office of the Ministry of Law and Human Rights.

    This brooch is not merely a piece of jewelry but a representation of Mataram’s identity, rich with philosophical significance. Inspired by the Sangkareang Gate at the Sangkareang Square—an iconic public space in Mataram—it embodies the values of openness, unity, and community spirit.

    The Symbolism of the Brooch

    The gate symbolizes an entryway to the future, reflecting Mataram’s openness to change, modernity, and collaboration with the wider world. Sangkareang Square, as a central public area, represents a hub of community activity where people from all walks of life can gather freely. The brooch artistically captures these elements, emphasizing the role of women in driving local creativity, economic growth, and cultural heritage through organizations like Dekranasda and TP PKK.

    The transfer of copyright to the Chair of TP PKK and Dekranasda underscores the brooch’s significance as more than just an aesthetic piece. It is a testament to Mataram’s cultural heritage, carrying both philosophical meaning and legal recognition. This move ensures that the brooch will be preserved, developed, and passed down as an official symbol of the city.

  • Mataram Celebrates 32nd Anniversary with Notable Achievements and Future Aspirations

    Mataram Celebrates 32nd Anniversary with Notable Achievements and Future Aspirations

    As the city of Mataram marks its 32nd anniversary, it stands not only as the capital of the West Nusa Tenggara Province (NTB) but also as a representation of the province on both national and international stages. This sentiment was expressed by NTB Governor L. Muhammad Iqbal in a speech delivered by Mataram Mayor H. Mohan Roliskana during the city’s anniversary ceremony held on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at Sangkareang Field.

    Governor Iqbal highlighted that Mataram, established as an autonomous city 32 years ago, has transformed into a significant barometer for NTB. This anniversary serves as an opportunity to reflect on the city’s journey, appreciate its achievements, and solidify future directions. In the past year, Mataram has garnered remarkable accomplishments worth celebrating.

    Achievements and Recognition

    Among its accolades, Mataram was awarded the title of Most Innovative City at the 2024 Innovative Government Award. This recognition underscores the city’s ability to not only keep pace with modern developments but also to leap forward with innovative governance and public service initiatives tailored to community needs.

    The city also achieved an unbroken streak of 11 consecutive unqualified opinions (WTP) from the Audit Board of Indonesia, reflecting rigorous financial management marked by accountability, transparency, and consistency. Furthermore, Mataram was ranked as the second most advanced city outside Java in the 2025 report by the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), highlighting its role as a driver of progress in eastern Indonesia and opening doors for broader investment and development partnerships.

    Community and Cultural Milestones

    These achievements are attributed to visionary leadership, bureaucratic diligence, community creativity, business contributions, and the support of religious leaders. Governor Iqbal praised these efforts, emphasizing that unity between the government and citizens can achieve the seemingly impossible.

    Local achievements also include Karang Pule Village in the Sekarbela District winning a national competition for villages, demonstrating that the strength of Mataram lies not only in government offices but also at the grassroots level. Additionally, Mataram emerged as the overall champion in the 2024 NTB Regional Recreation Festival, securing 130 medals, which reinforces its status as a hub for recreational sports excellence in NTB.

    Looking to the Future

    During the ceremony, Mayor Roliskana stressed that accolades should be viewed as stepping stones towards improving the quality of life for residents. As the city faces challenges such as rapid urbanization, infrastructure demands, climate change, and complex public service needs, the mayor remains optimistic that these can be tackled through collective effort and unity.

    In line with the anniversary theme “Our City, Our Future,” the mayor called on all stakeholders to recognize that Mataram’s future is a shared responsibility. He urged the community to empower the youth, providing them with opportunities to innovate and contribute, as they are the future stewards of the city.

    The anniversary celebration also featured several significant events, including the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between internal government auditors and law enforcement, the handover of copyrights, launching of organic waste processing initiatives, and distribution of various aids and facilities to support the community.

    Concluding his remarks, the mayor encouraged residents to foster unity and community spirit, asserting that a truly great city is defined by its strong solidarity rather than towering buildings.

  • Protests Escalate at North Lombok Regional Assembly Office

    Protests Escalate at North Lombok Regional Assembly Office

    Tensions have escalated at the North Lombok Regional Assembly (DPRD) office in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) on Saturday, August 30. Flames engulfed much of the secretariat building as protesters reportedly looted office inventory.

    Thousands of demonstrators, including students and vocational school pupils, converged from various directions toward the DPRD NTB office. The atmosphere remained charged into the afternoon, with crowds persistently voicing demands for justice.

    The protests were organized by the Alliance of Students and People of West Nusa Tenggara 2025, which presented a six-point list of demands. These include rejecting the proposed Criminal Procedure Code (RUU KUHAP), which they claim legitimizes abuses by authorities, and calling for an end to repressive and intimidating actions by law enforcement against demonstrators.

    The alliance also urged the Indonesian National Police to take action against those responsible for an incident involving an online motorcycle taxi driver and to ensure transparency in the investigation. They demanded the release of activists and demonstrators detained across Indonesia and called for the removal of National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo.

    Additionally, the protesters requested the DPRD NTB to address their earlier demands outlined on August 25, 2025. This large-scale demonstration is seen as a reaction to broader national unrest. Security forces continue to maintain a strong presence around the DPRD NTB building.

  • Asap Food Launches Online Shopping App in Central Lombok

    Asap Food Launches Online Shopping App in Central Lombok

    The online shopping application Asap Food has officially launched in Kuta, Central Lombok. The launch event took place at Pepito Kuta, a partner of Asap Food & Grocery, and featured a traditional Gandrung dance as part of the festivities.

    This collaboration between Asap Food and Pepito aims to simplify shopping needs for both tourists and local residents in Kuta and the surrounding areas. The partnership is expected to offer easy access to a variety of food products and daily necessities through an innovative digital platform.

    The launch marks an important step in supporting both local tourism and the economy, providing a shopping service that is not only efficient but also accessible to everyone.

  • Discover the Tranquility of Seger Kuta Beach Near Mandalika

    Discover the Tranquility of Seger Kuta Beach Near Mandalika

    Located in close proximity to the popular Mandalika area, Seger Kuta Beach is a hidden gem offering visitors a serene escape with its pristine white sands and calm waves. This picturesque beach is an ideal spot for those seeking relaxation away from the hustle and bustle.

    The beach is not just about the sands and sea; it also features a small hill nearby that adventurous visitors can climb. From the top, you are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

    Conveniently situated just 21 kilometers from Lombok International Airport, Seger Kuta Beach is easily accessible for travelers. Its proximity to the airport makes it an excellent choice for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Lombok without venturing too far from their arrival point.

    Image Source: Maps/Desi Heijl

  • Explore the Cultural and Natural Wonders of Sembalun Village

    Explore the Cultural and Natural Wonders of Sembalun Village

    Nestled in a picturesque landscape, Sembalun Village offers an exceptional blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Known as the main gateway to Mount Rinjani, this village is a destination that promises both adventure and cultural immersion.

    The village is blessed with a cool climate and surrounded by lush green hills, making it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors are drawn to its serene environment, perfect for rejuvenation and relaxation.

    Beyond its natural allure, Sembalun Village is steeped in tradition. One of the key cultural highlights is the Bale Baleq, a local tradition that has been preserved through generations. This cultural practice offers a unique glimpse into the village’s way of life, providing visitors with an enriching experience.

    Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an opportunity to explore local customs, Sembalun Village is a destination that offers the best of both worlds. It’s the perfect place for those wishing to ‘heal’ while immersing themselves in the vibrant local culture.

    Image Source: Maps/Kevin Sághi

  • Discover the Scenic Views of Bukit Selong in East Lombok

    Discover the Scenic Views of Bukit Selong in East Lombok

    Bukit Selong, located in East Lombok, is a popular destination for those seeking stunning landscapes. This site offers breathtaking views of patchwork rice fields spread across the valley, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

    Visitors to Bukit Selong can enjoy the serene beauty of sunrises and sunsets from its heights. The hiking trails leading to this picturesque location are safe and not too steep, ensuring a comfortable experience for beginners as well.

    Whether you’re capturing the vibrant colors of the landscape through your camera lens or simply taking in the peaceful ambiance, Bukit Selong provides a perfect escape into nature’s tranquility.

    Image Source: Maps/Christian S

  • Exploring the Majestic Mount Rinjani: A Haven for Trekkers and Tourists

    Exploring the Majestic Mount Rinjani: A Haven for Trekkers and Tourists

    Mount Rinjani, standing as the second-highest volcano in Indonesia at an impressive 3,726 meters above sea level, continues to captivate the hearts of trekkers and tourists alike. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, the mountain is not only a popular destination for climbing enthusiasts but also for those seeking to experience its unique natural attractions.

    One of the key highlights of Mount Rinjani is the stunning Segara Anak, a volcanic lake nestled within the caldera. This picturesque body of water is complemented by the presence of Gunung Baru Jari, a small volcanic cone that emerges from the lake’s center, adding to the area’s dramatic scenery.

    The trek to the summit of Mount Rinjani offers an unforgettable adventure. The journey challenges climbers with diverse terrains and weather conditions, rewarding them with panoramic views and a sense of accomplishment upon reaching the top. The experience is enriched by the opportunity to witness the natural beauty of the surrounding forests, wildlife, and the cultural significance of the region.

    Whether aiming for the summit or simply enjoying the serene atmosphere of Segara Anak, Mount Rinjani remains an iconic destination that draws visitors from around the globe, seeking both adventure and tranquility.