Help Waka, the Heart of Lombok’s Surf Community

Get Life-Saving Surgery

Hello, my name is Natan Palma, and along with a group of friends from Improve Surfing, I’m reaching out for help. Recently, we traveled to Indonesia, to the beautiful island of Lombok, where we surfed the breathtaking waves of Gerupuk. During our stay, we connected with the local community, who graciously share their knowledge and guide tourists daily to experience some of the world’s most unique surf spots, accessible only by boats operated by the locals.

In our two-week journey, we were fortunate to meet Waka, a 28-year-old local influencer and a true connector in Gerupuk’s surf community. Waka isn’t just a surf coach—he’s a lifeline for the entire area. He helps tourists, supports local businesses like photographers, videographers, board repairers, and clothing vendors, and brings endless positivity to everyone he meets. Waka’s presence fuels the heartbeat of Gerupuk.

But during our time together, we learned that Waka has been silently struggling with a severe illness, working just enough to survive each day. With the help of our group, we arranged a visit to a proctologist. The diagnosis was shocking: his condition has reached a critical stage, requiring immediate surgery. Without intervention, his life is at serious risk. This surgery could save him, but in Lombok’s economy, the cost is out of reach—a staggering 33.9 million rupiah, approximately $3,300 AUD.

Waka will need six months of recovery after the procedure, during which he won’t be able to work. We’ve set a goal of $5,000 to cover his surgery and support his basic needs during his recovery. His community is rallying around him, and they’ve even arranged to rent out his boat so he can maintain a small income during this period.

We’re calling on the global surf community and everyone who values the spirit of life and surf. If you’ve felt the magic of surf culture and the kindness of those who keep it alive, please consider giving. Any amount—whether $1, $10, or $100—will make a difference.

From the bottom of our hearts, we ask for your support. Help us give Waka a second chance to live, to keep spreading light and positivity on the shores of Lombok.

Thank you, and let’s keep the true spirit of surf alive.