"Ngabuburide" on the Mandalika asphalt

Lombok Tengah (ANTARA) – The sky over the southern coast of Lombok Island gradually turned orange. The clock showed 16:30 WITA. During Ramadhan 1447 Hijriah, this time was not merely an indicator of late afternoon, but a signal for residents to leave their homes.

Some were hunting for takjil (fast-breaking snacks), whilst others chose a different way to wait for the Maghrib call to prayer by riding on the world-class track located at the heart of the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit.

Ngabuburide, a term combining ngabuburit (spending time before iftar) and riding, became a distinctive Ramadhan phenomenon in the Special Economic Zone (KEK) Mandalika, Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB).

The 4.3-kilometre circuit with 17 turns served not only as the stage for the annual MotoGP race, but also as a more inclusive public space. Communities can now experience the sensation of being on the same track as world-class racers, albeit at different speeds.

Amidst the evening activity, the roar of motorcycles mixed with ocean breezes. Green hills and white sand surrounding the circuit formed a landscape rarely found in other racing arenas worldwide. This is what makes Mandalika different—sport tourism harmoniously blended with natural beauty.

The Chief Executive of the Mandalika Grand Prix Association (MGPA), Priandhi Satria, emphasised that the circuit is not solely for racing events.

“We present this Ramadhan promotion so that the community can experience the Mandalika Circuit more affordably during Ramadhan, without reducing service quality. We hope this activity can become a positive activity choice during the holy month,” he said.

This statement reflected one thing: the transformation of the circuit’s function from an exclusive arena into a space for social and economic interaction. Ramadhan became an opportunity to ground the circuit as something belonging to everyone.

More than just racing