Initiated by the Tourism Ministry, the event also showcased tas ketak, a signature bag of Lombok, outdoors at Selasar Bazar Mandalika.

According to a statement, Samuel collaborated with 10 young designers from Jakarta and NTB to present 30 contemporary Muslim wear pieces made of kain tenun(traditional woven fabric) for both males and females.

The decision to feature Muslim wear is in line with the government's efforts to make Lombok a religious tourist destination for Muslim travelers.

"We are hopeful that these young designers can acknowledge kain tenun even more and create new things with these regional fabrics," said Samuel in a statement.

Read also: Bau Nyale to charm tourists to Mandalika

Fashion designer Samuel Wattimena and jewelry designer Riana Meilia are seen talking during the Bau Nyale Festival. (Tourism Ministry/File)

He added that he expected to be able inspire young designers to show their potential in preserving kain tenun, which had become a cultural heritage, "not only in Lombok, but also in other regions."

Meanwhile, Riana opted to feature ethnic and unique brooches, necklaces and rings; combining 20 of her works with the Muslim wear.

"Hopefully this event can boost the presence of Lombok crafts, not only in Indonesia but also our neighboring countries," she added.

The festival itself annually gathers thousands of people at the beach to catch nyale (sea worm) before dawn using a humble lighting tool. 

Due to the huge enthusiasm, the government has backed the event for the past few years by creating a series of supporting activities. Other than the fashion show, other events scheduled at the festival are a surfing contest, photo contest, creative dialogue, culinary kampong, art and cultural performances, fish cooking competition and Princess Mandalika beauty pageant. (kes)