Sasak Betabeq Tradition Marks Final Preparations for Indonesia MotoGP at Mandalika
CENTRAL LOMBOK, STUPA NEWS — A traditional Sasak ceremony known as Betabeq was held at the Mandalika circuit on Wednesday (Sept. 16), as preparations continued for the Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia 2026.
Betabeq is a Sasak tradition in which people seek permission, blessings and prayers for safety before undertaking a major event. The ceremony also reflects respect for local communities, religious and customary leaders, as well as ancestors, while symbolizing a welcoming gesture toward guests.
The ceremony, organized by Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), was held at the VIP Deluxe Building of Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit. It was attended by West Nusa Tenggara Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal, Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia 2026 Vice Chairman Ananda Mikola, Central Lombok Regent Lalu Pathul Bahri, ITDC officials, MotoGP organizers and residents from communities surrounding the Mandalika area.
Iqbal said the tradition was particularly relevant as Mandalika continues to establish itself as an international venue for major sporting events.
“Betabeq is essentially a request for permission, blessings and prayers for safety before we undertake a major event,” Iqbal said.
He said local communities should have a meaningful role in the development of Mandalika rather than simply watching from the sidelines as the area hosts international events.
“Mandalika is no longer simply owned by the central government or by certain parties. In reality, Mandalika belongs to all of us,” Iqbal said.
The governor said around 2,500 marshals involved in events at Mandalika would be drawn from communities in West Nusa Tenggara, particularly residents living around the circuit. Local micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) would also continue to be given opportunities during major events.
Iqbal urged residents to help ensure the MotoGP event runs smoothly by maintaining security, cleanliness, hospitality and environmental standards.
“The success of an international event is not determined only by the readiness of the organizers, but also by the involvement of the community as hosts,” he said.
Ananda Mikola said cooperation among organizers, government authorities and local communities would be essential to delivering a successful event and a positive experience for riders and visitors from around the world.
“We greatly need the collaboration and support of all parties, especially in supporting the activities that we have prepared,” Ananda said.
Central Lombok Regent Lalu Pathul Bahri welcomed the Betabeq ceremony as part of efforts to preserve local culture as Mandalika develops as an international tourism and motorsport destination.
He said the area's appeal extended beyond its natural landscape and infrastructure, with local culture and community character also playing an important role.
Major events at Mandalika have also created opportunities for local businesses in areas including MSMEs, trade, transportation, services and tourism.
“Let us work together to preserve, protect and develop this tradition for the benefit of the community and future generations,” Pathul said.
The Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia 2026 is among the major international sporting events hosted by Mandalika, which has increasingly positioned itself as a destination combining motorsport and tourism in Indonesia. (Dewi Anjani)
