MotoGP Lombok Overshadowed by Indigenous Land Disputes
The MotoGP is set to kick off in Lombok island, Indonesia, at the Mandalika circuit. However, the event has been marred by controversy as dozens of Indigenous Sasak families face land evictions and compensation battles linked to the circuit's development. While the race will see the return of champion Marc Marquez, locals are struggling with the impact of the event on their lives.
The Mandalika circuit has displaced many Sasak families, with only 44 out of 124 remaining and fighting for fair compensation. Residents like Sibawahi, a 56-year-old carpenter and farmer, have lost significant portions of their land, with some waiting for over a year for compensation. UN experts have raised concerns about alleged intimidation and use of force, leaving communities living in fear.
Residents have been protesting, demanding the return of their land or adequate compensation. Fresh evictions have left over 2,000 people without their primary source of income. Some residents are even restricted from selling to visitors or leaving their new homes on race weekends without permission.
Despite the excitement surrounding Marc Marquez's return, the MotoGP event in Lombok is overshadowed by the ongoing displacement and compensation issues faced by the Indigenous Sasak families. The Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), responsible for the Mandalika tourism complex, has not publicly addressed these allegations. Locals continue to demand 'proper compensation and dignity', highlighting the need for a resolution to this ongoing issue.
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