Vast Lives Ep 09 - Tipi Jabrik

Vast Lives

In this episode we start off at the vibrant Earth Island Surf Festival 2024 at the stunning Pererenan Beach, one of Tipi Jabrik's favorite surfing spots in the world. The festival brings together Indonesian surfers from all over the country to celebrate their common passion for the sport, as well as the local community.
We then briefly shift our attention to Uluwatu for the Indonesian League finals. We discuss the importance of this event, with 14 participating clubs and more than 100 surfers competing across various divisions, such as open men's, open women's, juniors, and masters, including. The event is to determine the ranking of the Indonesian surfers who aspire to represent our country in world-class events.
Tipi Jabrik is founder of the Asian Surfing Co and one of the community leaders among surfers across Asia.
Tipi was born in Legian and shares his personal experiences of growing up and reflects on surfing culture in Bali over the decades. He talks of how the local surfing scene, from just a handful of surfers in the 80s to what it is today-a tight-knit community-got shaped by both locals and international surfers.
As we talk about changes in Bali, Tipi points out the changes in local culture and environment brought about by tourism and development. He has a very balanced view of the foreign investments that are coming in, realizing both the opportunities opened up for local people to be employed and, at the same time, the challenge to identity and sustainability of the island.
Throughout the episode we talk about the grassroots development of surfing in Indonesia, from the Indonesian Surfing Federation through to the Asian Surfing Championship Tour. Tipi shares his insights on what he feels should be in store for the future of Indonesian surfing and reinforces how imperative it is for a solid base to support young talent and give the opportunity for aspiring surfers.
We also touch on the cultural significance of surfing in Bali, the importance of respect for local traditions, and how any development should be balanced, focusing on the well-being of the community and the environment. Tipi's insights give a riveting account of how surfing, culture, and community interweave in Indonesia, a discussion sure to leave one hopeful and excited toward the future as regards surfing in the region.
In this captivating and profound episode, join us as we celebrate the spirit of surfing, community, and this special island called Bali.