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Abstract
This study aims to analyze the informal response, cultural influences, and local participation within the framework of the decentralization system in disaster management, focusing on the 2018 Lombok Earthquake in Indonesia. Conducted as an exploratory case study, Lombok in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Province was selected due to its significant losses from the earthquake, which triggered responses from various actors, stakeholders, and the local populace. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with 12 key informants and an analysis of policy documents relevant to disaster management in Indonesia. Findings reveal that governmental policies related to community empowerment played a crucial role in shaping the local response. Establishing national disaster status was deemed important to mobilize resources and coordinate efforts effectively. The study observed that local contributions significantly improved after the 2018 Lombok Earthquake, with enhanced response mechanisms and increased community participation compared to previous disasters. However, the research identified pre-existing and post-disaster conflicts within the local community, primarily due to resource allocation and differing priorities among stakeholders. Cultural memories and religious beliefs in Lombok also significantly influenced disaster mitigation and response, fostering communal solidarity and resilience. The affected local population faced severe trauma, necessitating comprehensive trauma healing initiatives to restore psychological well-being. An evaluation of the informal response highlighted both strengths and areas for improvement, emphasizing the need for better coordination and resource management. These findings underscore the critical need for strengthening local capacities, enhancing coherence between different levels of government, and integrating cultural and religious considerations into disaster management strategies to improve response efficacy and community resilience.