Sumbawa in Indonesia

The Sumbawa (or Samawa) group live on the island of Sumbawa in West Nusa Tenggara Province and are mostly farmers. They are Muslim but many Sumbawa professing Islam still rely on the advice and help of shamans, especially in times of crisis. They also believe in various spirits and genies. Farming is the primary means of support for the Sumbawa. They work the ground in both wet rice fields and dry fields that are irrigated by rainfall. Raising water buffalo, cattle, goats and horses is another very important means of income. The Sumbawa are familiar with a system of communal work called Basiru, which is where everyone works together in the fields on a rotating basis as the field owners request workers; basically a person working in the field of a neighbor in exchange for a neighbor working in his field.

Ministry Obstacles

The Sumbawa worldview (Islam and animism) makes it difficult for them to place their faith in the Son of God, Emmanuel.

Scripture Focus

"The Mighty One, God the LORD, speaks and summons the earth from the rising of the sun to its setting."  Psalm 50:1

Scripture Prayer

Pray that today’s people group will respond to God’s summons to come to Him!

Prayer Focus

Pray the Sumbawa would find improved markets for their agricultural products. Indonesian Christians on adjacent islands may bring the gospel message to the Sumbawa. Pray they would be given a desire to do this. There are a few believers among the Sumbawa. Pray they would be properly instructed in the faith, and that they may stand firm and hold to the teachings of Scripture.