Central Maluku Regency

History

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History of Central Maluku: The Heart of the Spice Islands in Eastern Nusantara

Central Maluku Regency is one of the oldest and most historic regions in Maluku Province. With a land area of 8,215.08 km², this regency is geographically located in the eastern part of the Indonesian archipelago. Although often considered an island region, Central Maluku holds significant historical importance as a former global trading center, especially through the Banda Islands, which are administratively part of this region.

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Classical Era and the Glory of Spices

Long before the arrival of Europeans, Central Maluku was known as the "Spice Islands." Its history is rooted in ancient trade networks connecting this region with traders from China, India, and Arabia. The Banda Islands in Central Maluku were the world's sole source of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) at that time. The social structure of its communities developed through the Uli system (alliances), such as Uli Lima and Uli Siwa, which regulated customary order and the distribution of agricultural produce.

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Colonialism and People's Resistance

Entering the 16th century, Central Maluku became an arena for power struggles between the Portuguese, Spanish, English, and Dutch. One of the darkest events was the massacre of the indigenous Banda people by the VOC under the leadership of Jan Pieterszoon Coen in 1621, aimed at monopolizing the nutmeg trade.

The resistance of the Central Maluku people reached its peak on May 15, 1817, through the Pattimura War. Thomas Matulessy (Kapitan Pattimura), aided by figures like Anthony Rhebok and the heroine Christina Martha Tiahahu, succeeded in capturing Fort Duurstede in Saparua. Although this resistance was eventually suppressed by the Dutch, the spirit of "Lawamena Haulala" remains a symbol of patriotism that inspired the broader Indonesian independence struggle.

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Independence Era and Administrative Formation

After the proclamation of independence in 1945, Central Maluku became an important part of Maluku Province. Officially, Central Maluku Regency was formed based on Emergency Law Number 6 of 1954. Its capital, Masohi, was built from scratch on the plains of Seram Island. The name "Masohi" itself was given by President Soekarno in 1957, taken from the local language meaning "Gotong Royong" (Mutual Cooperation), as a symbol of unity after the RMS (Republic of South Maluku) rebellion that had shaken the region's stability.

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Cultural Heritage and Modernization

Central Maluku possesses a unique cultural heritage in the form of the Pela Gandong system, a traditional brotherhood bond between villages of different religions or backgrounds. This tradition has proven to be a strong social adhesive in maintaining peace. Historical sites such as Fort Belgica in Banda Neira and the Old Church of Hila in Leihitu stand as silent witnesses to cultural acculturation and the long history of colonialism.

Today, Central Maluku continues to develop as an agricultural and maritime center in Eastern Indonesia. Infrastructure development connecting Seram Island, Saparua, and Banda aims to revive the maritime glory of the past within the framework of sustainable modern development.

Geography

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Geography of Central Maluku Regency: The Heart of the Spice Islands

Central Maluku Regency is one of the oldest and largest administrative regions in Maluku Province. With a land area of 8,215.08 km², this regency has very unique geographical characteristics. Although administratively part of an archipelagic province, its core territory lies in the eastern part and encompasses the central portion of the massive Seram Island.

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Topography and Landscape

The landscape of Central Maluku is dominated by steep structural mountains and narrow valleys. The main uniqueness of this region is the presence of the Binaiya Mountains, whose peak is the highest point in Maluku (3,027 masl). The topography of this region is highly contrasting, ranging from lowlands on the north and south coasts to highlands in the interior of Seram. Located in the middle of an island cluster, its geographical position is in the eastern part of the main Maluku axis, bordering directly with four neighboring administrative regions, including West Seram and East Seram. This region is surrounded by the vast landmass of Seram Island, making it an inland zone rarely found in a predominantly maritime province.

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Hydrology System and River Basins

Central Maluku has a complex hydrological system with large rivers that cut through the tropical rainforests. The Sapalewa River and the Eti River are two main streams that function as sources of irrigation and traditional transportation. The valleys formed around these rivers have very fertile alluvial soil, contrasting with the drier karst mountain slopes in the northern part.

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Climate and Weather Patterns

Climatologically, Central Maluku is influenced by a tropical maritime climate and a seasonal climate. Uniquely, this region has a seasonal pattern that often differs from western Indonesia. The rainy season usually occurs between May and August when the East Monsoon winds blow, while the dry season occurs from October to February. Annual rainfall is very high, ranging from 2,000 mm to 3,500 mm, which supports the evergreen forest ecosystem.

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Natural Resources and Biodiversity

The natural wealth of Central Maluku is centered on the forestry and plantation sectors. This region is the native habitat of the sago tree (Metroxylon sagu) and legendary spices like cloves and nutmeg. In the mineral sector, there are potential deposits of nickel and petroleum in several land blocks.

Ecologically, Central Maluku is part of the Wallacea transition zone. Its biodiversity includes endemic species such as the Seram Cockatoo (Cacatua moluccensis) and the Ambon Parrot. The presence of Manusela National Park serves as an important conservation stronghold protecting ecosystems from coastal forests to upper montane forests, making it one of the rarest and most valuable ecological zones in Eastern Indonesia.

Culture

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Cultural Richness of Central Maluku: The Heart of the Spice Islands Civilization

Central Maluku, a regency located in the heart of Maluku Province, is a region that holds extraordinary historical depth and cultural richness. Although administratively it shares land borders with four neighboring regions on Seram Island, the identity of Central Maluku cannot be separated from the history of the "Spice Islands" that brought together various local traditions with global influences.

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Pela Gandong Tradition and Customary Law

One of the most fundamental cultural pillars in Central Maluku is Pela Gandong. This inter-religious brotherhood system binds two or more *negeri* (customary villages) in a sacred vow to help each other. This tradition is manifested in the *Panas Pela* ceremony, a grand ritual where people from the bound *negeri* gather to renew their brotherhood vows through communal meals and customary processions. In addition, there is the Sasi tradition, a traditional conservation practice that prohibits the harvesting of certain natural resources for a specified period to maintain ecological balance.

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Traditional Arts, Music, and Dance

Performing arts in Central Maluku reflect a spirit of heroism and harmony. Tari Cakalele is an iconic war dance, where male dancers wear red attire (*kain berang*) while carrying *parang* (machete) and *salawaku* (shield). Meanwhile, Tari Lenso showcases gentleness through graceful hand movements using handkerchiefs. In terms of music, the Tahuri (large conch shell) wind instrument and the Tifa (wooden drum) are the main accompaniments. Vocal harmonies in the form of Choirs are also an inseparable part of the community's religious and social life.

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Local Cuisine and Sago Tradition

Sago is the lifeblood of Central Maluku. Its staple cuisine is Papeda, a thick sago porridge usually enjoyed with flavorful, spice-rich Ikan Kuah Kuning (fish in yellow soup). Additionally, there is Sagu Lempeng (flat sago bread), which is hard but delicious when dipped in tea or coffee, and Sambal Colo-Colo, which provides a fresh spicy and sour taste to every seafood dish. The use of walnuts is also very dominant, as seen in Halua Kenari (walnut candy) and Roti Kenari (walnut bread).

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Local Languages and Dialects

The community uses Ambon Malay as the daily lingua franca. However, in each customary negeri, the local language (Bahasa Tana) is still preserved, especially by the customary elders during sacred ceremonies. Expressions like "Beta" (I) and "Ose" (you) are characteristic of the rhythmic local dialect.

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Traditional Attire and Textiles

Traditional attire in Central Maluku is known for its elegant simplicity. Men wear Baju Cele with red stripes or small checkered patterns, paired with cloth trousers and a *kain berang* on their head. Women wear White Kebaya with fine lace, paired with a woven sarong. The use of silver jewelry and gold hairpins often completes the look during wedding ceremonies or customary feasts.

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Religious Practices and Cultural Festivals

Religious life in Central Maluku is marked by very high tolerance. Cultural festivals such as the Banda People's Festival (in the Banda Islands, which are administratively part of this region) feature dragon boat races or *Belang*. The Cuci Negeri (Village Cleansing) ceremony is also regularly held in various villages as a symbol of self-purification and environmental cleansing from negative influences before entering the new year.

Tourism

Exploring the Charm of Central Maluku: The Spice Heart of Eastern Indonesia

Central Maluku Regency, located in Maluku Province with an area of 8,215.08 km², is a destination offering unparalleled exoticism. As a region situated in the eastern part of the archipelago, this regency directly borders four main administrative regions, making it a unique meeting point of culture and nature. Although administratively it has a large landmass, its main attraction lies in its legendary island clusters such as the Banda Islands and Seram Island.

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Natural Wonders and Marine Adventures

Central Maluku is home to Manusela National Park on Seram Island, a conservation area offering dramatic karst mountain scenery and dense tropical rainforests. For climbers, conquering Mount Binaiya, the highest peak in Maluku, is an unforgettable spiritual and physical experience.

On the north coast of Seram Island lies Ora Beach, often dubbed the "Maldives of Indonesia." Its crystal-clear seawater allows you to see coral reefs directly from the balcony of your floating accommodation. Meanwhile, in the Banda Islands, the underwater beauty is among the best in the world, a paradise for divers wanting to see hammerhead sharks or ancient coral gardens.

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Historical Traces and Cultural Richness

As a former global spice trading center, Central Maluku holds rare historical sites. In Banda Neira, you can visit Fort Belgica, a well-preserved Pentagon-shaped fort from the VOC era. Not far from there are the Mini Palace and the exile houses of national figures like Bung Hatta and Sutan Syahrir. The uniqueness of the local culture is also reflected in the Pukul Sapu (Whip the Broom) tradition in Mamala and Morella Villages, an extreme cultural attraction demonstrating the resilience of the local youth.

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Gastronomy: Authentic Spice Flavors

Culinary tourism in Central Maluku is a journey of taste. Don't miss the fresh Papeda and Ikan Kuah Kuning. Try Manisan Pala (candied nutmeg) and Halua Kenari (walnut candy) which use local produce from the Banda Islands. Another unique experience is tasting Kopi Rarobaka, a typical Maluku ginger coffee sprinkled with roasted walnuts, providing a warm sensation amidst the sea breeze.

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Travel Tips and Accommodation

The hospitality of the local people is the soul of Central Maluku tourism. Accommodation ranges from historic *homestays* in Banda Neira to exclusive resorts on Ora Beach. The best time to visit is during the dry season between October to December or April to May, when the sea is calm and the weather is clear, ideal for island hopping and diving activities. Visit Central Maluku to experience the harmony between colonial history, biodiversity, and the sincerity of the people of Eastern Indonesia.

Economy

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Economic Profile of Central Maluku Regency: Epicenter of Eastern Spices and Agriculture

Central Maluku Regency, located in the cardinal eastern position of the Nusantara archipelago, is one of the regions with the most strategic economic profile in Maluku Province. With an area of 8,215.08 km², this regency has a unique characteristic as a land region surrounded by small island clusters, although administratively its economic activities are concentrated on the landmasses of Seram Island and Ambon Island.

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Leading Agriculture and Plantation Sectors

The main pillar of Central Maluku's economy rests on the plantation sector, especially commodities of spices that have been world-renowned for centuries. Cloves and nutmeg remain the largest contributors to the regional gross domestic product (PDRB). In addition, coconut and sago production are important commodities that support local food security. In the mountainous and lowland areas, cocoa and coffee cultivation are being intensively developed by local farmers to increase income diversification beyond traditional spice sectors.

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Processing Industry and Traditional Crafts

The industrial sector in Central Maluku is dominated by the processing of natural products. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) focus on processing eucalyptus oil, which is an iconic product of this region. Furthermore, the processing of sago into flour and its derivatives like enbal biscuits has become a household industry that absorbs a lot of female labor. Unique handicrafts, such as rattan weaving and shell crafts, also contribute significantly to the creative economy in tourist villages.

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Dynamics of the Service and Tourism Sectors

The service sector is experiencing rapid growth in line with Central Maluku's position as an inter-regional transportation hub in Maluku. Nature and history-based tourism, such as the Banda Neira area and Ora Beach, are magnets for foreign and domestic investment. The presence of historical sites from the colonial era adds economic value through the hotel sector, tour guiding, and distinctive local cuisine.

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Infrastructure and Connectivity

As a region directly bordering four other administrative regions, Central Maluku continues to improve land and ferry infrastructure. The presence of Masohi Port and Amahai Airport accelerates the flow of goods and services. The Trans-Seram road infrastructure is the lifeline for logistics distribution, connecting agricultural production centers with urban markets, significantly reducing distribution costs.

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Employment Trends and Economic Challenges

Current employment trends show a shift from purely agrarian sectors to services and trade. The local government is actively conducting vocational training to improve the skills of young workers in digital marketing of local products. Despite geographical challenges, economic integration between mountainous and coastal regions continues to be strengthened to create inclusive and sustainable economic growth in this eastern heartland of Indonesia.

Demographics

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Demographic Profile of Central Maluku Regency

Central Maluku Regency, often nicknamed "Pamahanu-Nusa," is a strategic region in Maluku Province with a land area of 8,215.08 km². As an archipelagic region dominated by large island clusters like Seram and Saparua, this regency plays a vital role as a growth center in the eastern part of Nusantara.

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Population Structure and Distribution

Based on the latest population data, Central Maluku is the regency with the largest population in Maluku Province, exceeding 423,000 people. The average population density reaches 51 people per km², but its distribution is uneven. The highest population concentration is in Masohi City District, the administrative center, and Leihitu District, which directly borders Ambon City. Conversely, the inland areas of Seram Island have a much lower density, reflecting the characteristics of the vast mountainous region.

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Ethnic Composition and Cultural Diversity

The demographics of Central Maluku are known for their high heterogeneity. The indigenous population consists of the Alifuru tribe (inland Seram tribe) and coastal communities closely related to traditional clans (Marga). The uniqueness of this region lies in the "Pela Gandong" social system, an inter-religious brotherhood bond that maintains demographic stability. In addition to the indigenous population, there is a significant population of migrant ethnicities such as Bugis, Makassar, and Buton who have settled for several generations, especially in coastal areas for trade and fisheries.

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Population Pyramid and Workforce

Structurally, Central Maluku has an expansive population pyramid with a large proportion of young people. The 0-19 age group dominates, indicating a still relatively high birth rate. This creates both challenges and opportunities in the form of a demographic bonus, where the productive workforce continues to increase.

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Education and Urbanization

The literacy rate in Central Maluku has reached over 98%, indicating fairly equitable access to basic education even in remote villages (Negeri). Urbanization is concentrated in Masohi, but rural-urban dynamics remain strong due to the community's dependence on the clove and nutmeg plantation sectors.

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Migration Patterns

As a "Rare" or unique region in the administrative context, Central Maluku serves as an internal migration transit point in Maluku. Population movement often occurs from smaller islands to Seram Island in search of wider agricultural land. Furthermore, population mobility towards Ambon City as the provincial economic center remains high, creating daily commuter patterns in the Leihitu and Salahutu Peninsulas.