Mount Rinjani Climbers to Undergo Mandatory Sembeq Buraq Ritual from Next Year

Prospective climbers of Mount Rinjani in East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, will be required to take part in the Sembeq Buraq ritual before their ascent, with the regulation expected to come into force next year. The policy is currently being drafted at the village level. Amrul Arahap, Chair of the South Rinjani Youth, stated that the Sembeq Buraq ritual is a long-standing Sasak tradition aimed at seeking blessings from traditional elders before a journey. “This ritual has been practised by our ancestors for a long time. Its purpose is to seek permission from traditional elders. We are now working to reinstate it as a requirement for climbers,” he said on Sunday (26/7/2026). During the ritual, climbers will be briefed on the prohibitions and taboos to observe while on the mountain, serving as a moral pledge to respect nature and adhere to customary law. In addition to the mandatory ritual, climbers—particularly those from outside Lombok and international tourists—will be directed to stay in villagers’ homes. This arrangement will allow visitors to explore various tourist attractions in the buffer villages along the southern route of Mount Rinjani before or after their climb. Amrul noted that the designated homestays will be properly organised beforehand. He added that South Rinjani Youth, together with the buffer villages, is currently formulating the customary rules to provide a strong foundation for a climbing concept based on environmental conservation, local culture, and community empowerment. The initiative has reportedly received a positive response and full support from the Mount Rinjani National Park Authority, with the drafting of the regulations targeted for completion by the end of this year.