The Sasak people
The original and current majority inhabitants of Lombok and the Gili Islands are the Sasak people. They have lived in the region for over a thousand years and make up roughly 85% of Lombok's population. Their culture is a rich blend of Islamic tradition, older animist beliefs, and influences from Javanese, Balinese, and Arabic trade contact over the centuries.
Sasak communities on the Gilis are small and close-knit. Most families have been on the islands for generations, and many still earn a living through fishing, farming, running small businesses, or working in the tourism industry. The language spoken at home is Sasak, though Bahasa Indonesia (the national language) is spoken by almost everyone and English is increasingly common in tourist areas.
Islam on the islands
Indonesia is the world's largest Muslim-majority country, and the Sasak are predominantly Sunni Muslim. Each of the three Gili Islands has at least one mosque, and you will hear the call to prayer (azan) five times a day. The earliest call is before dawn (typically around 4:30am) and the last is around 7:00pm. Visitors should expect this as part of the island soundscape, not something to complain about.
Friday is the main day of worship. The midday Friday prayer (Jumu'ah) is more significant than the daily prayers, and men from the community gather at the mosque. This is a good time to keep noise down and avoid walking through the mosque area.
Islam on Lombok has a distinct local flavour. The Wetu Telu tradition, practised by some Sasak, blends Islamic observance with older indigenous beliefs and Balinese Hindu influences. Most Sasak practice mainstream (Wetu Lima) Islam, but the cultural blend remains visible in local festivals and ceremonies.
Ramadan
Ramadan is the month-long Islamic period of fasting, observed from dawn to sunset. Most local Muslims on the Gilis fast during daylight hours. Tourist restaurants and bars continue to operate normally, and visitors are not expected to fast, but you should be respectful:
- Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in front of locals during daylight hours when possible
- Keep public drinking of alcohol discreet
- Be understanding if some local shops have shorter hours
- Dress more modestly than usual, particularly away from the beach
The end of Ramadan is celebrated with Eid al-Fitr (Lebaran in Indonesian), one of the most important festivals of the year. Locals return to family villages in Lombok and Java, so some businesses close for several days. If you are visiting during this period, expect a quieter island and plan your meals accordingly.
Dress code
The Gilis are generally more relaxed than most of Indonesia when it comes to dress, because of the beach tourism focus. Swimwear is fine on the beach and around pools. Short shorts, tank tops, and bikinis are acceptable in tourist restaurants and bars.
However, when walking through villages, inland areas, or past mosques, you should dress more modestly:
- Cover shoulders and knees
- Avoid walking shirtless (for men) away from the beach
- Wear a sarong or wrap over swimwear when walking between your hotel and the beach
- Remove shoes when entering homes, mosques, or some restaurants
Greetings and basic etiquette
A smile goes a long way. Locals are generally very friendly and welcoming. Some basic etiquette points:
- Use your right hand for eating, giving, and receiving — the left hand is traditionally considered unclean
- Don't touch people's heads (including children) — it is considered disrespectful
- Point with your thumb rather than your index finger
- Don't show the bottoms of your feet toward people
- Accept tea or coffee if offered, even just a few sips — refusing hospitality can be seen as rude
- Say "selamat pagi" (morning), "selamat siang" (midday), "selamat sore" (afternoon), or "selamat malam" (evening) depending on the time
Cultural festivals and events
Bau Nyale
This is one of the most famous Sasak festivals, celebrating the annual appearance of sea worms (nyale) off the southern coast of Lombok in February or March. The festival has deep cultural meaning related to the legend of Princess Mandalika. While the main event happens on Lombok, the festival is celebrated across Sasak communities including the Gilis.
Perang Topat
A unique Sasak festival involving a ritual "war" where participants throw rice cakes at each other. It originated as a symbol of harmony between Muslims and Hindus in Lombok. This is a Lombok event rather than Gili-specific but worth knowing about.
Islamic holidays
Major Islamic holidays like Eid al-Fitr (end of Ramadan), Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice), and Mawlid (Prophet Muhammad's birthday) are observed by the local community. Expect some businesses to close and a more contemplative atmosphere.
Music and arts
Traditional Sasak music uses instruments like the gendang beleq (a large drum), seruling (bamboo flute), and various gongs and stringed instruments. You may occasionally catch performances at cultural events or weddings.
Modern Gili nightlife is dominated by reggae, acoustic rock, and electronic dance music in the bars, particularly on Trawangan. The reggae bar scene has deep roots here and some bands have been playing the same venues for years.
Food culture
Sasak cuisine is spicier than most Indonesian food, reflecting Lombok's reputation as the "island of chilli." Signature dishes include:
- Ayam taliwang — grilled chicken with a fiery chilli sambal
- Plecing kangkung — water spinach with tomato, chilli, and lime
- Sate bulayak — satay served with pressed rice wrapped in palm leaves
- Nasi campur — rice with a rotating selection of small dishes
- Rendang — slow-cooked spicy beef (Indonesian classic)
Eating at a local warung is a cultural experience in itself. Food is often served buffet-style (point to what you want), portions are generous, and prices are a fraction of what you pay at tourist restaurants. Supporting these local family businesses is one of the best things you can do for the community.
Final thoughts
The Gili Islands are welcoming to outsiders and the local Sasak communities have adapted to decades of tourism while keeping their culture alive. A small effort to understand and respect the culture will be warmly received, and you will come away with a deeper appreciation of the islands beyond the beaches and reefs.