DENPASAR — The Lamaholot Family Association (Ikatan Keluarga Lamaholot/IKL) Bali celebrated its 55th anniversary in a heartfelt ceremony held at Wantilan Swaka Prema, Renon, Denpasar, on Sunday (November 9, 2025). The event also featured the inauguration of the new IKL Bali executive board and the launch of the Lamaholot Dewata Cultural Studio.
The inauguration of the new board, led by Yoseph Pati Padak as the newly appointed Chairman for the 2025–2028 term, was officiated by Herman Umbu Bily, Chairman of the Flobamora Bali Association.
The ceremony was attended by Flores Timur Regent, Anton Doni Dihen, Chairman of Rumah Flobamora Indonesia Yoseph Yulius “Yusdi” Diaz, Chairman of Flobamora Bali Herman Umbu Bily, Chairman of PENA NTT Agustinus Apollonaris Kelasa Daton, and Chairman of the Denpasar chapter of the Indonesian Cyber Media Association (SMSI) Igo Kleden, along with other Flobamora community leaders and local dignitaries.
In his speech, Yoseph Pati Padak expressed gratitude for the presence of the Flores Timur Regent, marking a historic moment for the Lamaholot community in Bali.
“This 55th anniversary is a very special moment for us. It is the first time that the Regent of Flores Timur has attended our celebration — a symbolic moment of unity between our homeland and the diaspora in Bali,” Yoseph said.
IKL Bali elder and Temukung (community elder) Yoseph Yulius Diaz reflected on the association’s long journey since its founding in 1971, emphasizing the spirit that binds the Lamaholot community together.
“The spirit of Lamaholot Bali is built on both sorrow and joy — not joy and sorrow,” he remarked. “Our organization was born out of shared struggles, which shaped our deep sense of solidarity.”
Representing the government of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), Yusdi also encouraged members of the diaspora to be good citizens and contribute positively to Bali’s community life.
“We can support by sharing good information and values with fellow NTT people in Bali. I hope the Lamaholot community will remain united and strong,” he added.
Meanwhile, Flores Timur Regent Anton Doni Dihen highlighted Bali’s strategic role for NTT, especially in developing future collaborations across tourism and economic sectors.
“Bali holds a strategic position for Flores Timur’s future plans. We will continue to embrace and collaborate with the Lamaholot diaspora in Bali,” he said.
The Regent also shared his appreciation for the vibrancy of the Lamaholot community in Bali compared to other regions.
“The Lamaholot community in Bali is so lively — more so than in Jakarta. Please preserve this spirit so that our diaspora continues to thrive,” he urged.
The event concluded with the official launch of Sanggar Lamaholot Dewata, envisioned as a hub for cultural preservation and creative activities for the younger generation. The initiative aims to nurture pride in Lamaholot heritage while promoting cross-cultural collaboration in Bali.***
