Lombok's Rise: The Next Bali or Paradise Lost?

Lombok, an island in Indonesia, is quickly gaining popularity as a travel destination. Many people are starting to compare it to Bali, which is famous for its beaches and vibrant tourism scene. Lombok has similar beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and scenic hills, but it is less crowded than Bali. Surfers and hikers love Lombok for its hidden spots, like Mount Rinjani, an active volcano that attracts many adventurers. Damar, a local surf guide, remembers being afraid of foreigners as a child, but now he enjoys taking tourists out to sea and learning about different cultures. He says working in tourism has helped him earn more money and opened his mind to new experiences.

The Indonesian government sees Lombok's potential and wants to turn it into another Bali. They have invested a lot of money in building new resorts, cafes, and even a racetrack in Mandalika, a town in southern Lombok. Recently, thousands of people came to watch a motorcycle Grand Prix there. However, these changes have caused problems for some locals. Many families were forced to leave their homes to make way for new developments, and some, like Damar, had to start over. While tourism has brought new opportunities, not everyone has benefited equally. Some people are still struggling to rebuild their lives after being evicted.

There are also concerns about the impact of tourism on Lombok's culture and environment. Kartini, a cafe owner, worries that the island will lose its charm if it becomes too commercialized. After rumors of evictions, security forces demolished nearly 200 stalls on Tanjung Aan beach, leaving many locals without a way to earn a living. Ella and her husband, who sold coconuts and coffee on the beach, are among those affected. The government says new hotels will create jobs, but many locals feel left out. Some tourists also think Lombok should keep its unique identity instead of trying to be like Bali. Environmental issues, like pollution from large events, are becoming more common. While tourism has brought prosperity to some, others miss the peaceful life they had before. Lombok is changing rapidly, and people hope it can grow in a way that benefits everyone and preserves its special character.