West Nusa Tenggara: Lombok and Sumbawa – Islands of Culture, Nature & Economic Potential
Geographic Overview
West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) comprises the western portion of the Lesser Sunda Islands, encompassing the main islands of Lombok and Sumbawa along with several smaller islets. The provincial capital is Mataram, located on Lombok. Geographically, NTB features sprawling coastal plains in western and southern Lombok and more rugged, mountainous terrain in the east, while Sumbawa offers a diverse landscape with steep hills, mountains, and dry grasslands.
Demographic and Ethnic Composition
As of mid-2024, NTB’s population reached approximately 5.7 million. The ethnic makeup includes Sasak (about 56%), Bimanese (14%), Sumbawanese (8%), Balinese (12%), Dompuan (3%), and minor Javanese communities. Islam is the dominant religion at nearly 97%, with a small Hindu minority primarily among the Balinese population, as well as Christian and Buddhist communities.
Topography and Natural Environment
The province is home to Mount Rinjani on Lombok, an active volcano reaching 3,726 meters and a centerpiece of Rinjani National Park, noted for its crater lake and ecological diversity. Sumbawa contains Mount Tambora—infamous for its 1815 eruption—and more arid eastern landscapes. The region enjoys a tropical climate, with wet and dry seasons, though eastern Sumbawa often experiences prolonged dry periods.
Economy and Development
West Nusa Tenggara’s economy is underpinned by agriculture, tourism, fisheries, and mining. Farmers grow rice, corn, soybeans, peanuts, tobacco, coconut, and cashews, while cattle ranching is prevalent on Lombok. Tourism thrives around sites like Mount Rinjani, the Gili Islands, Kuta Beach in Lombok, Lakey Beach in Sumbawa, and the Mandalika Special Economic Zone, which hosts MotoGP events. The Batu Hijau mine in Sumbawa is a major producer of copper and gold. Economic initiatives focus on infrastructure, renewable energy, and SME support.
Cultural Heritage and Society
The province is culturally diverse. The Sasak of Lombok preserve traditional customs through Merariq wedding rituals, Gendang Beleq music, and woven songket textile artistry. On Sumbawa, Samawa and Mbojo cultures are known for buffalo races, indigenous weaving, and war dances. Balinese Hindu culture also contributes through temples and ceremonies. Food specialties include Ayam Taliwang, Plecing Kangkung, and Sate Rembiga.
Infrastructure and Connectivity
Connectivity across NTB is supported by Lombok International Airport, ferry services such as Lembar Harbor and Labuhan Lombok, and upgraded road networks linking tourist spots, agricultural areas, and urban centers. Infrastructure improvements also target energy access via rural electrification and emerging renewable projects.
Conservation and Challenges
NTB balances economic ambitions with environmental sensitivity. Rinjani and Tambora national parks guard habitats and water resources, but mining and development create ecological pressures. Regional planning emphasizes sustainable tourism, waste management, disaster resilience, and renewable energy development.