A 19th century explorer, Alfred Wallace, was the first to discover these distinctive differences between Bali and Lombok, and , indeed, between Bali and all of the Indonesian islands to the east. He named this division the "Wallace line", an imaginary line of separation between Bali and Lombok that showed where tropical forest landscapes ended and dry, barren landscapes began. The dramatic transition from Asian originating animal species to Australian animal species can be observed at this point, which is now known as the Wallacea zone.

As well as the changes in geography, the transition in wildlife species between Bali and Lombok are dramatic and significant. Carnivorous animals, such the large rhinocerus, elephants and tigers are not found east of Bali, and nor are insectivores. On the other hand, the number of Australian bird species, such as the sulfer-crested cockatoo, increases dramatically.

A contrasting culture
The other major difference between the two islands is cultural. While the Greater Sunda Islands down to Bali have been inhabited for more than one million years, the Lombok straight appears to have remained unbridged until some 30 to 50,000 years ago.

Apart from the more recent Balinese immigrants, Lombok has her own indigineous culture. The Bodas, who claim to be the original inhabitants of Lombok, have maintained a presence in the southeastern corner of the island, living in villages with traditional round thatched huts. They may be the predecessors of the Wetu Telu religion, an animistic faith that has partially integrated Islam into its beliefs. The religion has now become a part of the Sasak culture, along with the more orthodox Waktu Lima.

The Sasaks, who make up approximately 80% of the population, are thought to have originally come from Burma or northwest India. Originally a hill tribe with distinguishing features, the Sasaks have more Caucasian facial features, darker skin and wavier hair than their neighbours.

The culture and arts of the Lombok Sasaks are simpler, although they are renowned for their weaving, pottery and baskets. Many of the fabrics produced here have more of an eastern island feel about them, with splashes of tinsel and bright colour. The natural materials once used to produce ikat cloth are no longer economically viable options, so unfortunately cheaper materials are mostly now used. Distinctive giant water pots are produced in Lombok, as are baskets in traditional colours made from finely woven fibres. Apart from the influence of ikat weaving, the islands of Nusa Tenggara have remained relatively unaffected by the Indianisation of many other parts of Indonesia, including Bali.

Leading the way
Many people will continue to compare and contrast the developing Lombok and her more worldy-wise neighbour, but as yet the island just a little to the east is maintaining her own sense of identity completely. Yes, she is a little of what Bali once was, and yes, she is partly populated by the same peoples and carved by traditions from the same culture, but that is where the comparisons will end.

As Andre Syarhreza has warned, however, Lombok may follow a developmental path that will transform the "Bali of old" into simply "another Bali". With support for the push for eco-tourism, already a distinguishing feature of the developing tourist destination, Lombok may have the opportunity to make the most of her unique identifying features.

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