Mirasa: A Story of Resilience, Family, and a Woman’s Determination

1000 seeds of rice planted in one afternoon with two pair of hands

Uncovering the struggles of Lombok’s Indonesian-Chinese communities reveals a hidden history that sparks both curiosity and admiration. While the island of Lombok is rich with tales of kingdoms and trade, it is also home to the powerful, untold stories of both struggle and resilience from many marginalized communities.

In the heart of Mataram, one bakery has stood the test of time and hardship. Mirasa Bakery isn’t just a place to buy fresh bread and cakes—it’s a symbol of perseverance, family unity, and the incredible strength of one woman.

This is the story of Cici Lisan and her Aunty, the woman behind Mirasa, and the journey of a Chinese-Indonesian family that turned struggle into success.

The Humble Beginnings of Mirasa

Long before Mirasa became a household name, it started as a simple family-run restaurant in 1976. Back then, it wasn’t a bakery at all—it was Mirasa Restaurant, a humble eatery serving chicken noodles and fried noodles. 

Like many Chinese family businesses, every member played a role—no one sat back while others worked. The founder, alongside his siblings and children, built a thriving business through dedication and teamwork.

When the founder passed away, his son, William, stepped in to keep the restaurant going. His wife, though unable to cook, contributed in other ways. This family-first approach kept Mirasa alive—but their greatest challenge was yet to come.

Crisis, Bankruptcy, and Reinvention

The late 1990s were a turbulent time. A financial crisis rocked Indonesia, and anti-Chinese sentiment escalated, forcing many businesses to shut down—including Mirasa Restaurant.

For most, this would have been the end of the story. But not for William and his family. Instead of giving up, they adapted. They decided to start over—not with a restaurant, but with a bakery.

Baking wasn’t something they mastered overnight. The first attempts were rough, and success didn’t come easily. But through trial, error, and relentless determination, Mirasa slowly transformed into a beloved bakery, one oven baked cake at a time.

The Strength of a Woman: Cici Lisan's Journey

After William’s passing, the business was taken over by his sister, with the entire family rallying once again to keep it running. Among them was Cici Lisan, a woman who faced not just professional challenges but personal ones too. After separating from her husband, she had to raise three children on her own—all while helping to manage Mirasa.

“There were nights when Cici Lisan had nothing left—no money, no certainty—but she had her father’s teachings: ‘Never give up.’ She rolled up her sleeves, learned to make bread from scratch, and built something remarkable.”

She learned new skills, brought in chefs to teach her the art of baking, and became one of the driving forces behind Mirasa’s success. Today, she stands at the forefront of the business, balancing modern innovation with traditional values, never losing sight of one truth: hard work and perseverance always pay off.

Mirasa Today: A Business Built on Family and Loyalty

Today, Mirasa Bakery is more than just a business—it’s a community. With over 100 employees, it continues to thrive despite increasing competition. But what truly sets Mirasa apart is its heart.

Many employees have been with the bakery since the beginning, some working for multiple generations. The company values loyalty, treating employees like family. In fact, as a testament to this, Mirasa sponsors an annual Umrah pilgrimage for its staff—an act of gratitude for their dedication.

Words of Wisdom from Cici Oei

As our conversation came to an end, Cici Lisan shared a piece of advice that has guided her through life’s toughest moments:

"Never underestimate small beginnings. Every big restaurant started in a small home kitchen. Stay diligent, stay consistent, and one day, it will grow beyond what you ever imagined."

Her story is a testament to resilience, hard work, and the unbreakable spirit of a woman who refused to give up.

So next time you’re in Mataram, stop by Mirasa Bakery. Taste the history, feel the passion, and remember the incredible journey behind every bite.

Ibu Nurul rice farmer

1000 seeds of rice planted in one afternoon with two pair of hands

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