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The Call From The IKRA Nusantara Leader Energizes The Kalondo Lopi Event In NTB
Monday, 28 Oct 2024
As the 2024 regional elections approach, the people of Bima Regency in NTB have come up with a unique way to prevent division. One of their methods is the Kalondo Lopi cultural ritual (Ship Lowering).
This event is organized by IKRA (Wera Nusantara Family Association) in collaboration with the Forum for Communication of Kasabua Ade (FOKKA Indonesia) and supported by Korem 162 Wira Bhakti, taking place on October 23-24, 2024, in Sangiang Village, Wera District, Bima Regency, West Nusa Tenggara.
Prof. H. Muchtar, the Chairman of IKRA, explained that Kalondo Lopi can also serve as a gateway to develop various potentials in the Wera District.
"From natural tourism, culture, culinary delights, to various local wisdoms, all have high market value, which will positively impact the economy of the Wera community," said Prof. Muchtar.
He believes that Sangiang Api Island, a pride of the Wera District, has its own charm for tourists, attracting both local and international visitors to the area.
"This is a potential that needs to be captured, preserved, and developed, as it will have a macro impact on the development of other regions with great potential, like Ular Island, Karomo Wera, Taja Ngao, Oi ca'ba, Pasir Besi Beach, and more," he explained.
Therefore, following the Kalondo Lopi event, IKRA plans to initiate a Tourism Village and Sangiang Api Festival, featuring traditional sailing boat races, beach horse racing, an arts and culture week, and a national-scale UMKM bazaar.
"We will strive to get this included in the national event calendar, InsyaAllah," he added.
At the same time, the Chairman of the Kalondo Lopi Committee, Saifullah Anwar, noted that political contests during elections often lead to polarization in society, causing even neighbors to stop speaking to each other over differing political choices.
With the Kalondo Lopi event, everything is blended together and united once again. It serves as a cultural movement aimed at bringing together all the scattered elements around.
"The philosophy behind Kalondo Lopi is about showcasing communal strength in today's era. It's a coastal social phenomenon that emphasizes values of mutual cooperation and togetherness, without any political divides," he explained.
Additionally, the presence of the military during the Kalondo Lopi ritual acts as a unifying force against polarization. "Through this moment, we want to show the world that togetherness is real, highlighted by the unity of the military and the people," he added.
Saifullah also pointed out that Kalondo Lopi can help neutralize conflict-prone areas in Bima. This ritual has proven that the community can come together and celebrate joyfully.
"In a village far removed from the chaos of democracy, the so-called conflict zone during the elections simply doesn't exist. Everyone is happy and joking around," he concluded.
