The traditions of Ngerampek and Mepes in Lombok are fascinating agricultural practices that showcase the island’s deep connection to its rice farming heritage. These rituals are not only integral to the local way of life but also reflect the spirit of community and cooperation that has sustained Lombok’s rural societies for generations. Despite the advent of modern farming equipment, these traditions are still maintained by the people of Lombok, offering a glimpse into the past while also preserving local customs and values.

Ngerampek: The Traditional Harvesting Process

Ngerampek is the traditional method of harvesting rice, where the grain is separated from the stalks by hand. This process is usually done in groups of 4-6 people, known as Perampek (the doers), who are hired by the owners of the rice fields. The activity requires teamwork, skill, and physical effort, and even though modern machines are available for harvesting, this traditional method still holds a special place in Lombok’s agricultural practices.

The process begins with cutting the rice stalks and stacking them in a specific area. This helps to make the Ngerampek process smoother and more efficient. After the rice stalks have been left to settle for a day, the Perampek begin the actual Ngerampek. They use a special wooden tool shaped like a right triangle, known as a rampek, to strike the bundled rice stalks, separating the grains from the stems. This is done carefully, as it ensures that the rice grains are not damaged in the process.

Mepes: The Final Stage of Harvesting

Mepes is the next step in the rice harvesting process and involves separating the remaining rice grains, called Roroq, from the leftover stalks. This task is usually carried out by women, known as Pemepes, who assist in the rice harvest to provide food for their families. Mepes is often a community effort, with groups of women walking long distances—sometimes up to tens of kilometers—to collect the leftover grains.

The Pemepes begin their work once the Perampek have thrown the Roroq in front of them. The grains that remain after the Ngerampek process are considered to belong to the Pemepes, as a sort of charity or blessing from the landowner. The tools used for Mepes are simple: a blunt iron tool with a 50 cm wooden handle, which requires less physical strength than the intense labor of Ngerampek. The women carefully separate the rice grains from the remaining stalks and place them into bags.

Once the grains are collected, they are cleaned and packed into sacks to be weighed. These packed grains are then transported by the Perampek to the edge of the road, where they are ready to be loaded onto trucks and sold at the local markets. The rice collected during the Mepes process belongs to the Pemepes, as a form of sustenance and happiness, symbolizing the blessings of a bountiful harvest.

Community and Tradition: A Spirit of Cooperation

Both Ngerampek and Mepes are not just labor-intensive processes; they are rich in cultural meaning. These activities bring the community together, with people from different households working side by side. It is a time of social interaction, where stories are exchanged, songs are sung, and bonds are strengthened.

The tradition of Mepes and Ngerampek also reflects the generosity and communal spirit of the Lombok people. The rice grains that are left for the Pemepes are seen as a form of charity, a symbol of goodwill, and a way for the landowners to share their blessings with others. This practice of sharing the harvest represents the value of collective effort and mutual support, which is central to the social fabric of rural Lombok.

A Magical Night Tradition

Both the Ngerampek and Mepes traditions often take place at night, especially in the fields illuminated by the flickering lights of oil lamps or the glow of strong temple lamps. This creates a unique, almost magical atmosphere, where the rice fields seem to come alive under the starry sky. The rhythmic sounds of the Perampek striking the rice stalks and the soft movements of the Pemepes as they sift through the grains make for a peaceful yet industrious scene.

The community members, including the Perampek and Pemepes, often bring their own food and drinks from home—Takilan—to keep them fueled throughout the long night. This not only sustains them physically but also adds to the sense of camaraderie and togetherness during the harvest.

Come and See the Traditions of Lombok

The Ngerampek and Mepes traditions are an essential part of Lombok’s cultural heritage, and they offer visitors a rare opportunity to witness a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Whether you’re a traveler interested in Lombok’s rural culture, a foodie eager to taste the fresh, locally grown rice, or simply someone looking to understand the deeper aspects of Lombok’s agricultural life, these traditions provide a unique and meaningful experience.

So, if you ever find yourself in Lombok during the harvest season, make sure to visit the rice fields and witness the Ngerampek and Mepes traditions firsthand. It’s an experience that not only allows you to see the hard work behind Lombok’s rice production but also teaches you about the values of community, gratitude, and sharing that are deeply embedded in the island’s way of life.

Come on, come and see—Lombok’s traditions are waiting for you!