Buton

History

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History of Buton: A Fortress of Civilization in the Heart of Southeast Sulawesi

Buton Regency, located in the central cardinal position of Buton Island, Southeast Sulawesi, possesses a historical narrative that is exceptionally unique and rare in Indonesian historiography. With an area of 1,650.85 km², this region is not merely an administrative entity but the rightful heir to one of the most influential maritime kingdoms in the Nusantara archipelago.

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Origins and the Sultanate Era

Buton's history began in the 13th century with the arrival of four pioneering figures known as Sipanjonga, Simalui, Sitamanajo, and Sijawangkati. They established the initial settlement which later developed into the Kingdom of Buton in 1332. Its first ruler was a woman named Wa Kaa Kaa.

A significant transformation occurred in 1542 when the 6th King of Buton, Lakilaponto, embraced Islam and was inaugurated as the 1st Sultan of Buton with the title Sultan Murhum Kaimuddin Khalifatul Khamis. From then on, Buton adopted a unique sultanate system of governance with a written constitution called Martabat Tujuh. Unlike other kingdoms, the Sultan's position in Buton was not hereditary but democratically elected by the Siolimpu Council.

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Colonial Era and Territorial Resilience

During the colonial period, Buton was known for its ability to maintain sovereignty. One of the most prominent historical facts is that Buton was never physically colonized by the Dutch in the sense of territorial annexation. The relationship between the Sultanate of Buton and the VOC was based on an alliance agreement that began in 1613.

A monumental relic from this era is the Buton Palace Fortress (Wolio). This fortress holds a world record as the largest fortress, covering approximately 23.3 hectares. Built with mountain stones cemented with a mixture of egg whites and lime, this fortress stands as a symbol of the resilience of the Buton people against pirate attacks and foreign interventions.

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Integration and Independence Era

Following the Proclamation of Indonesian Independence in 1945, the last Sultan of Buton, Sultan Muhammad Falihi, demonstrated high nationalism by declaring the integration of the Sultanate of Buton into the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia. This region later became part of Southeast Sulawesi Province upon its formation in 1964, based on Law No. 13 of 1964.

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Cultural Heritage and Modern Development

Culturally, Buton boasts the Pakande-kandea tradition (traditional feast) and the Posuo ritual (seclusion for girls entering adulthood). The people of Buton are also known for their use of the Wolio script, a modification of Arabic letters for the local language, indicating a high level of literacy from ancient times.

To this day, Buton continues to develop by optimizing its natural wealth, especially Buton asphalt, which is the largest natural asphalt deposit in the world. As a region bordering five neighboring areas (Baubau City, Central Buton, South Buton, Muna, and North Buton), Buton Regency plays a strategic role as a cultural and historical center connecting the maritime past of the Nusantara with the future development of Southeast Sulawesi.

Geography

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Geographical Profile of Buton Regency, Southeast Sulawesi

Buton Regency is a territorial entity administratively located in Southeast Sulawesi Province. Based on its geographical characteristics, this region covers a land area of 1,650.85 km². Unlike the common image of an archipelago, the focus of this region is on its central position, surrounded by land, making it a connecting axis between areas on the mainland of Buton Island. Spatially, Buton directly borders five adjacent administrative regions, reinforcing its position as a strategic meeting point in Southeast Sulawesi.

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Topography and Landscape

The topography of Buton Regency is dominated by complex relief variations, ranging from narrow lowlands to rolling hills and steep mountain ranges. The terrain structure in the central part is characterized by extensive karst, creating a unique underground drainage system. Mountains in this region, such as Mount Lambelu, are the headwaters for several important rivers that flow through fertile valleys. These valleys were formed by thousands of years of erosion, creating alluvial soil layers that support domestic activities.

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Climate Patterns and Seasonal Variations

Climatologically, Buton is influenced by a tropical climate with two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The presence of hills in the central part creates specific microclimates; rainfall tends to be higher in elevated areas compared to lowlands. Average air temperatures range between 24°C and 32°C with high humidity throughout the year. The west monsoon winds bring significant moisture, while the east monsoon brings dry periods that affect the hydrological cycle of inland rivers.

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Natural Resources and Geological Potential

Buton's most iconic and rare geological wealth is its natural asphalt reserves. Buton is known as one of the few places in the world with large-scale natural asphalt deposits. In addition to minerals, the forestry sector is dominated by tropical forests that produce high-quality teak wood and rattan. In the agricultural sector, the soil conditions are highly conducive to the development of plantation commodities such as cocoa, cashew nuts, and coconuts, which thrive along the valleys and hillsides.

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Ecological Zones and Biodiversity

As part of the Wallacea transition zone, Buton possesses very high and endemic biodiversity. Its ecological zones include mountainous tropical rainforests that are habitats for rare fauna such as the Anoa (Bubalus quarlesi) and the Maleo Bird. The forest vegetation in the central region serves as a vital catchment area for the ecosystem stability of the entire Buton Island. The presence of unique flora and fauna makes Buton a region with high conservation value in Eastern Indonesia.

Culture

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Noble Heritage and Cultural Richness of Buton, Southeast Sulawesi

Buton Regency, located in the heart of Southeast Sulawesi Province, is a region with deep historical roots, especially as the heir to the Sultanate of Buton. With an area of 1650.85 km², Buton holds rare and authentic cultural uniqueness, making it one of the most respected centers of maritime and agrarian civilization in the Nusantara.

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Traditions, Customs, and Local Ceremonies

The people of Buton strongly adhere to a local version of the *Bhineka Tunggal Ika* philosophy, reflected in the past Sultanate's system of governance. One of the most sacred traditions is Posuo (Seclusion), a rite of passage for teenage girls towards adulthood. For eight days, the girls are isolated to receive spiritual and moral guidance. Additionally, there is the Pedhole-dhole ceremony, a tradition of naming and praying for toddlers, and Pekande-kandea, a tradition of communal eating from a large tray (talang) as a form of gratitude and welcoming honored guests.

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Arts, Dances, and Music

Buton's performing arts are heavily influenced by Islamic and knightly values. Tari Linda is a classical dance that symbolizes the elegance of Buton women in the Posuo ritual. Meanwhile, Tari Ponare showcases martial arts prowess using spears and shields. In terms of music, the beats of Ganda (drums) and Gongs accompany the verses of Kabanti, which is oral literature in the form of pantuns or poems recited in the local language to convey moral messages or feelings of longing.

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Local Cuisine and Flavors

Buton's cuisine is dominated by fresh produce and seafood with fresh flavors. The iconic staple food is Kasuami, a dish made from grated cassava steamed into small cone shapes. Kasuami is usually enjoyed with Parende, a fresh fish soup seasoned with turmeric, tamarind, and basil. There is also Kambewe, a snack made from young corn wrapped in corn husks, offering a distinct natural sweetness.

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Language and Dialects

The people in this region use Cia-Cia Language and Wolio Language. The extraordinary uniqueness of the Cia-Cia Language is its use of Hangeul (Korean) script in its writing system to preserve the local dialect, a rare linguistic phenomenon worldwide. Meanwhile, Wolio Language was the official language of the sultanate, formerly written using Arab-Malay script called Buri Wolio.

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Traditional Attire and Textiles

Buton takes great pride in its woven fabric, Tenun Buton. Its motifs are not just decorations but symbols of social status. The *Bia-bia* and *Kasopa* motifs have vertical and horizontal lines indicating the wearer's caste. The traditional male attire is called Baju Bhada, while women wear Baju Kombo, an ornate top with beads and gold thread, paired with a layered sarong (bebe).

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Religion and Cultural Festivals

Religious life in Buton is a harmonious blend of Sufi Islamic teachings and local traditions. The peak of the annual cultural celebration is the Buton Sultanate Palace Festival. This festival revives the glory of the past through the Santiago procession (pilgrimage to sultan's graves), silver craft exhibitions, and communal prayer rituals at the Grand Mosque of the Buton Palace. The magnificent Buton Palace Fortress stands as a silent witness to the strong cultural and physical defense of the Buton people in the central position of the Southeast Sulawesi archipelago.

Tourism

Exploring the Magnificent Charm of Buton: The Historical Heart of Southeast Sulawesi

Buton Regency, strategically located in the central position of the Buton Islands, Southeast Sulawesi, is a rare destination offering a perfect blend of past glory and authentic natural wealth. With an area of 1,650.85 km², Buton directly borders five other administrative regions, making it a cultural nexus connecting maritime and agrarian traditions in the southeastern peninsula of Sulawesi.

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Cultural Heritage and the Grandeur of the Largest Fortress

The main attraction that makes Buton a "Rare" or unique destination is the Buton Palace Fortress (Wolio Fortress). Recorded in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest fortress in the world, this site is not just a pile of rocks but the still-preserved center of the Buton Sultanate's civilization. You can explore the historic bastions while enjoying the view of the Buton Strait from above. Don't miss a visit to the Grand Palace Mosque and witness the Santiago tradition, a pilgrimage to ancestral graves rich in spiritual value.

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Natural Wealth: From Protected Forests to Waterfalls

Although Buton Regency's administrative area does not focus on coastal tourism (much of which has been diverted to its surrounding expansion areas), its inland beauty is stunning. Lambusango Forest is a prime destination for nature lovers. Here, you can observe rare wildlife such as the Sulawesi Cuscus and the Maleo Bird. For those seeking tranquility, Kandawu-Ndawu Waterfall offers the freshness of mountain water amidst untouched tropical rainforest, providing a challenging yet rewarding trekking adventure.

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Delectable Local Cuisine

A tourist experience in Buton is incomplete without tasting Kasuami, a staple food made from cassava shaped into a cone, usually enjoyed with Ikan Parende. Ikan Parende is a fresh yellow fish soup, using local spices and starfruit. You must also try Kopi Rongi, a special coffee from the traditional Rongi village with a unique aroma due to its traditional roasting process over a wood-fired stove.

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Local Hospitality and Best Time to Visit

The people of Buton are known for strongly upholding the philosophy of Poma-maasiaka (mutual affection). You can experience this hospitality through homestay accommodations in tourist villages, where guests are often considered part of the family.

The best time to visit is between August and October. During this period, the weather is generally clear for outdoor activities, and it often coincides with the Buton Sultanate Palace Festival, where you can witness the spectacular Pedole-dole dance and the unique and rare Posuo (seclusion) ritual. Buton is not just a stopover; it is a journey back to the grand roots of Nusantara tradition.

Economy

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Economic Profile of Buton Regency: World Asphalt Center and Inland Dynamics

Buton Regency, strategically located in the "central" part of the Southeast Sulawesi region, covers an area of 1,650.85 km². Although Buton Island is generally known for its coastline, this administrative region is topographically dominated by inland landscapes rich in extractive resources, making it one of the rarest and most vital economic points in Indonesia.

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Mining Sector: Buton Asphalt as the Economic Locomotive

Buton's most prominent economic characteristic is its ownership of the world's largest natural asphalt reserves. Unlike its surrounding regions, Buton's economic structure is highly dependent on the mining sector. Buton asphalt (Asbuton) is not just a raw commodity; the development of asphalt refining industries in this area has attracted significant investment. Companies like PT Wijaya Karya Bitumen are key players in downstream processing, creating employment for thousands of local residents and positioning Buton as a supporter of national road infrastructure stability.

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Agriculture and Superior Commodities

In the agricultural sector, the highlands of Buton focus on plantation crops. Cashew nuts and coconuts are superior products that have penetrated export markets. The agricultural system here still maintains local wisdom but is beginning to transform towards mechanization. Furthermore, Buton's forests produce high-quality teak wood and rattan, which are the main raw materials for local and regional furniture industries.

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Traditional Crafts and Creative Economy

One of Buton's unique economic aspects is the traditional weaving craft "Kasopa." This woven fabric is not just a cultural product but has become a driver of the creative economy for women in rural areas. In addition, the processing of non-timber forest products such as Buton forest honey and rattan weaving creates value-added products marketed through MSMEs, which are now beginning to leverage digital platforms to expand market reach beyond Southeast Sulawesi.

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Infrastructure and Inland Connectivity

As a region surrounded by five neighboring administrative areas, Buton functions as an inland logistics hub. The development of an outer ring road and improvements to access roads leading to ports in neighboring areas (such as Baubau) are crucial. Adequate land transportation infrastructure is key to reducing logistics costs for asphalt and agricultural product shipments.

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Employment Trends and Future

Employment trends in Buton show a shift from subsistence agriculture to the processing and service sectors. The local government continues to promote the development of a special asphalt industrial area to ensure economic value-added remains within the region. With its strategic geographical position in the middle of regional trade routes, Buton Regency is transforming from an agrarian region into an independent and sustainable extractive industrial powerhouse in Southeast Sulawesi.

Demographics

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Demographic Profile of Buton Regency, Southeast Sulawesi

Buton Regency, strategically located in the central part of the Buton Islands, Southeast Sulawesi, has unique demographic characteristics as a non-coastal region with a land area of 1,650.85 km². As a political entity directly bordering five administrative regions (North Buton, Central Buton, South Buton, Baubau City, and Muna Regency), Buton functions as a cultural and historical gravity center in the southeastern peninsula of Sulawesi.

Population Structure and Density

The population of Buton Regency shows a stable growth trend with a significant concentration of people in the Pasarwajo area. Population density is heterogeneous; despite its large area, population distribution tends to cluster in areas with high land accessibility. This creates a contrast between densely populated core areas and inland regions still dominated by agrarian landscapes.

Ethnic Composition and Cultural Diversity

The rarest demographic characteristic of Buton is its still-preserved traditional social stratification system. The majority of the population is of the Buton ethnicity (Cia-Cia, Wolio, and other sub-ethnic groups). A prominent demographic uniqueness is the presence of communities using Korean (Hangeul) script in several villages, a rare linguistic phenomenon worldwide. Additionally, there are migrant populations from Bugis, Muna, and Javanese ethnicities who have assimilated, enriching the local cultural mosaic without erasing the original identity of the sultanate.

Age Distribution and Education

Buton's population structure is dominated by the productive age group (15-64 years), forming an expansive population pyramid widening in the middle. Literacy rates in Buton Regency are at an excellent level, reflecting the region's commitment to human resource development. In the last decade, the educational profile of the community has shifted significantly from basic education graduates to an increasing number of university graduates, driven by proximity to educational centers in Baubau City.

Urbanization and Migration Dynamics

As a non-coastal region, rural-urban dynamics in Buton are heavily influenced by the asphalt mining and agricultural sectors. Migration patterns are circular; many young people from Buton migrate out of the province for education or work in the maritime sector, but they maintain strong ties to their homeland. Internal urbanization is centered in Pasarwajo, which functions as the administrative and economic center, while rural areas remain the main buffer for the region's food security.