Revving Through History: MotoGP Mandalika 2026 Bridges Modern Speed with Ancient Sasak Myth

JAKARTA – The roar of high-performance engines is set to harmonize with the rhythmic echoes of ancient heritage as the 2026 MotoGP Mandalika approaches. Beyond the asphalt battleground of the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit, a unique cultural convergence is taking place: the Museum NTB (West Nusa Tenggara) is curating a special exhibition that promises to transport international racing enthusiasts into the heart of Lombok’s mystical past.

By showcasing 21 meticulously selected artifacts, the exhibition serves as a deliberate intersection between the adrenaline-fueled world of elite motorsport and the rich, ancestral tapestry of the Sasak people.

The Convergence of Myth and Modernity: The Sekardiu Phenomenon

At the epicenter of this year’s cultural showcase is the mythical creature known as Sekardiu. In a masterstroke of thematic curation, the Museum NTB has positioned this legendary figure as the bridge between the 18th-century folklore of the region and the 21st-century pursuit of speed.

Bunyamin, a Senior Cultural Curator at the Museum NTB, explains that the decision to highlight the Sekardiu was not arbitrary. “NTB possesses an extraordinary wealth of cultural heritage, and the Sekardiu is at the forefront of that legacy,” Bunyamin stated during the press briefing on Thursday, October 8, 2026. “In our tradition, the Sekardiu symbolizes velocity, raw energy, and connectivity. When you look at the engineering of a MotoGP bike and the skill of the riders, you are seeing the modern manifestation of those very concepts.”

According to Sasak folklore, the Sekardiu is a chimera of supernatural proportions—possessing the head of a horse and a lion, the body of a horse, and the tail of a dragon. Within the narrative of the Jayengrana wayang (shadow puppetry), the Sekardiu served as the primary steed for the hero, renowned for its ability to traverse distances with blinding speed.

Chronology of the Exhibition: A Four-Day Cultural Journey

The exhibition, which opened its doors on Thursday, October 8, 2026, is a carefully orchestrated event designed to coincide with the peak excitement of the MotoGP race weekend.

• Thursday, Oct 8: Opening ceremony at the Pertamina MotoGP Experience Gallery. The focus was on the introduction of the Jayengrana manuscripts and the philosophical connection between the Sekardiu and modern racing.
• Friday, Oct 9: Dedicated sessions for international media and racing teams to view the artifacts, focusing on the historical significance of the Cale (traditional betel nut cutters) and their craftsmanship.
• Saturday, Oct 10: Public viewing and interactive demonstrations. Experts are on hand to explain the evolution of the Sekardiu into the Jaran Kamput performance art.
• Sunday, Oct 11: The grand finale. The exhibition concludes as the checkered flag falls on the Mandalika track, symbolizing the successful integration of sports tourism and cultural diplomacy.

The exhibition is open daily from 09:00 to 17:00 WITA, located strategically in the South Gallery on the second floor of the Pertamina MotoGP Experience Gallery, ensuring that race attendees can easily immerse themselves in the culture without straying far from the paddock action.

Supporting Data: The 21 Artifacts of Cultural Significance

The curation of the 21 artifacts was a labor-intensive process, involving historians, archivists, and cultural practitioners. The collection is designed to provide a comprehensive look at the historical identity of the NTB region. The inventory includes:

1. The Jayengrana Manuscript: An ancient scroll detailing the epic adventures and the mythological origins of the hero’s journey.
2. Wayang Figures: Exquisite hand-carved puppets representing both Sekardiu and the hero Jayengrana.
3. Visual Art: Six original paintings illustrating the mythological lore of the Sasak people.
4. Sculptural Artifacts: Two distinct pairs of Sekardiu representations, providing a tactile sense of the creature’s anatomy as envisioned by ancient craftsmen.
5. Utilitarian Art: Four Cale—traditional betel nut cutters shaped in the likeness of horses—demonstrating how art was integrated into the daily, mundane rituals of Sasak life.
6. Textiles: Four intricately woven fabrics that reflect the unique weaving techniques and color palettes of NTB, which have been passed down through generations.

The inclusion of the Cale and the textiles highlights a shift in the museum’s strategy. Previous years focused heavily on the natural history of the region, such as the geological impacts of the Samalas-Rinjani and Tambora eruptions. This year, however, the museum has pivoted toward "ethnographic storytelling," choosing pieces that resonate with the spirit of competition and motion.

Official Responses: Aligning Tourism with Heritage

Ahmad Nuralam, the Head of the Museum NTB, emphasized the necessity of this strategic shift. "Our primary goal is to ensure that when a visitor comes to Lombok for the MotoGP, they do not leave with only memories of the track," Nuralam said. "We want them to leave with an understanding of the soul of NTB."

Nuralam believes that sports tourism is a double-edged sword that, if handled correctly, can provide significant economic and cultural capital to the local population. By placing the exhibition within the heart of the Circuit’s experience gallery, the museum is effectively "capturing" the captive audience of high-net-worth travelers and global racing fans.

"We hope that the synergy between the speed on the track and the depth of our history creates a lasting impression," Nuralam added. "When the world looks at Lombok, we want them to see a place that respects its past as much as it accelerates toward the future."

Implications: The Future of Cultural Diplomacy in Sports

The 2026 MotoGP Mandalika exhibition represents a broader shift in how Indonesia promotes its regions on the global stage. By integrating cultural storytelling into massive international events, the government is moving away from generic tourism marketing toward a more sophisticated model of "Cultural Diplomacy."

The Legacy of Jaran Kamput

The evolution of the Sekardiu into the Jaran Kamput—a traditional performance art still utilized in contemporary Sasak society for circumcision ceremonies and wedding processions—proves that the past is not stagnant. As Bunyamin noted, "We want to deliver the message that Jaran Kamput is a living heritage. It is not just a relic in a display case; it is a vital part of the social fabric of Lombok today."

Economic and Social Impact

The economic impact of this integration is twofold. First, it adds value to the MotoGP ticket, justifying longer stays for international travelers who might otherwise only stay for the race weekend. Second, it promotes the local creative economy. By highlighting textiles and traditional craftsmanship, the exhibition provides a platform for local artisans to be recognized on an international stage, potentially opening doors for export and global appreciation of Sasak weaving and carving techniques.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the initiative is praised, it also presents challenges. The museum must ensure that the delicate artifacts are preserved in the climate-controlled environment of the gallery, and that the narrative presented is accessible to a non-Indonesian speaking audience.

However, the potential rewards are immense. If this model proves successful, it could become the blueprint for other provinces hosting international events. Imagine the Borobudur marathon paired with ancient Javanese philosophy exhibits, or surfing competitions in Aceh paired with the history of maritime trade.

Conclusion: A Race to Remember

As the engines quiet down after the final race, the impact of the Museum NTB’s presence at the Mandalika Circuit will likely linger. By anchoring the exhibition in the myth of the Sekardiu, the museum has successfully humanized a sport often criticized for being too cold or mechanical.

The 2026 MotoGP Mandalika is no longer just a competition between riders; it is a competition of narratives. It is a testament to the fact that while technology moves us forward, it is our culture that provides the context for why we move at all. Visitors are invited to step into the South Gallery, not just to look at old objects, but to understand the "speed" of the Sasak people—a speed that has survived centuries, evolved into art, and is now, finally, ready to be shared with the entire world.