Lembak in Indonesia

People Name:	Lembak
Country:	Indonesia
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	248,000
World Population:	248,000
Primary Language:	Col
Primary Religion:	Islam
Christian Adherents:	0.01 %
Evangelicals:	0.00 %
Scripture:	Portions
Ministry Resources:	No
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Musi of Sumatra
Affinity Bloc:	Malay Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Lembak live in the provinces of Bengkulu and South Sumatra.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The family system is patrilineal with a bilateral lineage of descent (traced through both parents). Their main source of livelihood is cultivating rice. Not many work in the nearby rubber plantations. Many also have small-scale brick-making factories in rural villages.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Lembak have embraced Islam, although a large part of the community still adheres to animistic beliefs as well. Most believe in the power of unseen spirits inhabiting sacred places.

What Are Their Needs?

There have been several instances of animosity towards Christians with religious differences seeming to have been the main cause. This environment closes them to the gospel message. To spread the word to any of the Lembak, outreach will first have to focus on working through the tensions between religious communities.

Prayer Points

Ask God to send strong believers who are respectful and will show their kindness and willingness to help the Lembak, perhaps through such things as higher standards of education and training for their young people.
Ask God to make himself real to the Lembak in subtle and surprising ways.
Ask God to encourage young people through dreams and visions, then provide believers who can answer their questions.