Economic Boost from Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia 2026: A Local Perspective

The upcoming Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia 2026, scheduled for October 9-11 at the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit in Lombok, Nusa Tenggara Barat (NTB), is anticipated to provide a substantial economic boost to the local community. As the event draws near, local businesses, particularly in the hospitality and culinary sectors, are already experiencing a surge in demand.

Reddy Mardani, a representative from Mango Room Mandalika, noted that the price of their homestay rooms, typically set at around Rp600,000 (approximately $40) per night, could rise to Rp2 million (about $130) during the event. Despite the significant price increase, demand remains high, with all rooms sold out during the race days. Reddy Mardani mentioned that even though the event lasts only three days, they can sell their rooms at three times the usual rate.

Similarly, local eateries are preparing for a busy period. Deni, a worker at Rumah Makan Sate Rembiga Ibu Hj. Sinnaseh, mentioned that sales could double during the event, with the restaurant usually serving around 1,500 portions of satay daily. He added that they expect to be busy for a week and also receive additional bonuses.

“Even though the event lasts only three days, we can sell our rooms at three times the usual rate.”Reddy Mardani, representative at Mango Room Mandalika

Job Opportunities for Local Residents

The event is also creating numerous job opportunities for local residents. Baiq Essenza, a 20-year-old from Praya, Lombok, expressed her pride in working at the circuit for the first time, where she is part of the cleaning team. She stated that it is very rewarding and that she is proud to be part of the Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia, especially working in the paddock area.

According to Muhammad Baron, Vice President of Corporate Communication at PT Pertamina (Persero), the company’s support for motorsport aims to enhance economic activities in the region. He explained that the presence of tourists and racing fans provides opportunities for businesses in accommodation, culinary, travel, car rentals, and other supporting services to thrive.

“It’s very rewarding. I’m proud to be part of the Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia, especially working in the paddock area.”Baiq Essenza, local worker

Support for Local Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)

Local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are also poised to benefit from the event. Rohaniah, owner of Malindo Coffee, highlighted the importance of sharing local stories through their products. She mentioned that Mandalika is a super priority destination that attracts global tourists and expressed hope that they take home local products, such as their innovative coffee sticks.

Other local businesses, like Sate Ibu Lilik, are eager to introduce their specialties to a broader audience. M. Arif Yani, the owner, expressed excitement about the opportunity to showcase local culinary delights during the event, noting that this is a chance for them to introduce their food and hopefully gain recommendations from visitors.

In addition to hospitality training provided by Pertamina and Universitas Mataram, local businesses are also receiving support in waste management and sustainability practices. Pertamina has initiated programs to help manage waste effectively, turning organic waste into fertilizer and creating value-added products from inorganic waste.

“This event is not just about the three days of racing; it’s about creating a legacy for Indonesia and developing the region’s tourism potential.”Maya Watono, CEO of InJourney

Long-term Economic Impact

The economic impact of the Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia extends beyond the event itself. InJourney, a state-owned enterprise, has indicated that the MotoGP event could generate significant economic benefits, involving about 3,000 local workers and over 600 MSMEs. Maya Watono, CEO of InJourney, stated that the event is not just about the three days of racing but about creating a legacy for Indonesia and developing the region’s tourism potential.

As the event approaches, local stakeholders are optimistic about the benefits it will bring. They hope that the increase in tourist arrivals will positively affect the local economy and job opportunities.