Sasak Traditions Face National Heritage Review

RRI.CO.ID, Lombok Timur - The preservation of the Sasak people's distinct cultural identity has taken center stage in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), as the Ministry of Culture begins a crucial on-site verification process to elevate three ancient regional traditions to National Intangible Cultural Heritage (WBTB) status for 2026.

Rather than treating these customs as mere historical relics, local authorities and communities are pushing for formal state recognition to safeguard the living heartbeat of Sasak civilization from modern erasure.

The evaluation team, comprising experts from the Directorate of the Ministry of Culture, the NTB Cultural Preservation Agency (BPK), and the NTB Provincial Culture Agency, traveled deep into local villages to observe the traditions firsthand. The three cultural expressions under review include the high-energy Belanjakan martial arts tradition of Masbagik, the intricate Sapit Swele weaving craft, and the time-honored preparation of the Temerodok traditional snack in Sakra Village.

East Lombok Education and Culture Agency, Head M. Nurul Wathoni emphasized that securing formal recognition is a vital shield for the region's spiritual and artistic legacy.

"We continue to strive to ensure the preservation of tangible and intangible cultural heritage in the region. We sincerely hope that the three cultural heritage sites verified today will be approved," Wathoni said in East Lombok on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

To satisfy national standards, cultural officers are meticulously gathering historical data and documentation to prove the continuous practice and cultural significance of these traditions within the 2026 calendar year.

"Going forward, we will continue to propose other cultural heritages with the support of scientific studies," Wathoni added, pointing to a broader vision where Sasak lore and customs are systematically validated through in-depth scientific and anthropological research.

However, documenting and celebrating this rich cultural tapestry is a challenging endeavor. The local department revealed that conducting comprehensive academic studies on these ancient rituals is frequently hindered by strict budgetary limitations.

To overcome these financial hurdles and keep cultural preservation efforts alive, officials are seeking broader support from both the East Lombok Regency Administration and private stakeholders.

The push for heritage status has ultimately ignited a powerful wave of grassroots cultural pride. Residents of Masbagik, Sakra Village, and Sapit have rallied together, offering their own resources to keep their ancestral ways flourishing.

"I appreciate the verification team and the communities of Masbagik, Sakra Village, and Sapit who have provided moral and material support to ensure the preservation of the Sasak tradition," Wathoni said, praising the communities for acting as the true custodians of their heritage.

Regional leaders are urging the public to view their inherited customs not merely as entertainment, but as economic and social pillars that can uplift the community. Closing with a passionate call to action, Wathoni urged all sectors of society to unite around their shared roots, "Let's collaborate to preserve Sasak culture so that it has a positive impact on society." ***