Lombok Zone – The provincial government of Nusa Tenggara Barat (NTB) has kicked off its Lentera Ramadan program at the Al-Muwahidin Grand Mosque in Bima City, marking a significant moment in the Islamic calendar.
This initiative is part of the 2026 Lentera Ramadan series, which is being hosted for the first time across various districts in NTB.
Lentera Ramadan aims to enhance Islamic outreach, promote religious activities, and empower local economies during the holy month of Ramadan. The program includes religious teachings, competitions, bazaars for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), as well as education on business and digital marketing.
Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal emphasized the shift from previous years when Ramadan activities were centered in Mataram. Starting this year, events are set to rotate across all regions of NTB. “We want development to not be focused only on Mataram but to reach every corner, including cities and regencies like Bima,” he stated.
The Lentera Ramadan schedule kicked off in North Lombok from February 25 to March 1, 2026, followed by Bima City on March 2-3, Central Lombok from March 4 to 8, and concluding at the Hubbul Wathan Islamic Center in Mataram from March 11 to 17.
Highlighting development strategies, Governor Iqbal asserted that the focus must not solely be on the capital. The government is committed to enhancing health services in Sumbawa Island by upgrading the provincial hospital there to Type B. This change means residents will no longer need to travel to Mataram for essential services like cath lab procedures, heart examinations, and other critical care.
Additionally, there are plans to elevate the status of Bima City Hospital from Type D to Type C. Starting June 2026, vital health services will be available in Bima, reducing the need for patients to be referred to Mataram, a move aimed at alleviating the economic burden on families who often spend extended periods in the capital.
Governor Iqbal commended the integration of mosque activities with economic initiatives through the MSME bazaar, noting that this approach symbolizes a balance between spiritual and economic strength. “Mosques and markets can coexist, reflecting harmony between worldly affairs and the hereafter,” he remarked.
In Bima City, Vice Mayor Feri Sofiyan shared the day’s activities, which began with an inspection of Amahami Market alongside the NTB Vice Governor, followed by a readiness ceremony at the city government office and visits to supported MSMEs and families in extreme poverty.
He expressed gratitude for the support from the provincial leaders, stating their presence inspires local officials to improve services for the community.
Recently, Bima’s economy has shown a positive growth trend of around 4-5% annually, driven primarily by trade and services. Despite relatively high inflation, market inspections have revealed stable prices for key commodities, including chili peppers and essential goods.
The Bima City Government is committed to ensuring food availability during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr with stable and affordable prices.
Through the Lentera Ramadan 1447 H program, the NTB government aspires to foster a spirit of togetherness, equitable development, and economic empowerment among the community throughout NTB, particularly in Bima City.
Attendees included NTB Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal, NTB Vice Governor Indah Dhamayanti Putri, Bima City Vice Mayor Feri Sofiyan, and other local officials.
