Mataram - The Governor of West Nusa Tenggara, Dr H Lalu Muhamad Iqbal, launched the Ogoh Ogoh parade as part of the Nyepi Day commemoration, taking place in the front yard of the Cakranegara Barat Mataram Village Office (28/3/2025). Governor Iqbal congratulated the people on the Nyepi Saka New Year 1947.
‘This is my first time attending this ceremony. Hopefully from now on, this ceremony will not only belong to Hindus, but to all West Nusa Tenggara residents,’ he said.
In addition, the Governor of West Nusa Tenggara, who is usually called Miq Iqbal, hopes that in the coming years the celebration of this ceremony can be better and able to provide a spiritual touch for Hindus in particular, and residents of West Nusa Tenggara.
‘Let's show the world that we, the people of West Nusa Tenggara, love peace, understand the meaning of tolerance and solidarity with each other so that tonight we will begin to observe the fast with full devotion,’ he said.
Meanwhile, the Advisor of the Lombok Hindu Youth Alliance, Anak Agung Made Djelantik, expressed his gratitude to the pecalang, the organising committee and the parties involved for their cooperation so that this activity could run smoothly and peacefully.
It was mentioned that this activity is routinely held every year with a sense of togetherness and tolerance which is a source of shared pride. It was also added that through this activity, it is part of an appreciation of art and culture while also uplifting the community's economy.
‘Through this momentum, let us together maintain togetherness and foster tolerance among religious communities,’ he concluded. (san/dyd/kominfotikntb)