Sasak

a people inhabiting the central and eastern sections of the island of Lombok in Indonesia. Population, more than 1.3 million (1974, estimate). The Sasak speak one of the Indonesian languages. They are Muslims, with the exception of a sect of Hindus. Most Sasak are farmers and cultivate rice and cotton. They are also highly skilled at crafts, such as weaving.

From the mid-15th to the mid-17th century, the Sasak were vassals of the rajas of the island of Sumbawa and of the Makas-sarese people. During the next two centuries they were vassals of the rajas of the island of Bali and acquired certain features of Balinese culture. In 1894 the island of Lombok was seized by Holland. The Sasak rose several times against Dutch domination.