Central Lombok, W Nusa Tenggar (ANTARA) – Residents of Sade Traditional Village in Central Lombok District, West Nusa Tenggara Province, performed the Nyemulak ritual, marking the rebuilding of Sasak traditional homes and a mosque destroyed by fire.
“This month commemorating the Prophet Muhammad’s birth is an auspicious time, so rebuilding begins today,” Central Lombok District Head Lalu Pathul Bahri said here Thursday.
He praised donors supporting the reconstruction, saying their assistance had helped residents recover and resume normal activities.
“We hope residents will continue supporting the reconstruction for the welfare of future generations,” he said, adding that the reconstruction will remain transparent and comply with regulations for the benefit of the community.
West Nusa Tenggara Governor Lalu M. Iqbal said the first post-setting ceremony, known as Nyemulak, marked a long-term effort to rebuild Sade Traditional Village.
“The reconstruction process requires patience,” he said.
The governor also called for a task force and joint bank account to manage donations transparently, saying many people wanted to support the reconstruction.
“All incoming assistance should be collected,” he said.
He also urged authorities to accelerate construction of a semi-permanent museum so residents could resume activities.
“Visitors can see what Sade looked like, because the area has been closed since reconstruction began,” he said.
He stressed that Sade’s reconstruction should restore its original character, as tourists visit to see buildings reflecting Sasak culture and rituals practiced in West Nusa Tenggara.
“The reconstruction must not be rushed. This is West Nusa Tenggara’s first cultural preservation project,” he said.
Sade Traditional House Reconstruction Coordinator Lalu M. Faozal said the work followed an agreement reached with all residents of Sade Hamlet.
“Today was agreed as an auspicious day to begin installing foundation posts for the mosque and Sade traditional homes,” he said.
He said the fire affected 75 traditional homes, eight berugak, or gazebos, six sekenam structures, one mosque, two toilets, and 69 shops.
“All construction begins today, but it cannot be completed simultaneously. Work will follow a safer reconstruction plan,” he said.
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Translator: Akhyar R, Rahmad Nasution
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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