Maros

History

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History of Maros Regency: Gateway to Civilization and Resistance in South Sulawesi

Maros Regency, strategically located in the center of South Sulawesi with an area of 1447.05 km², is more than just a buffer for Makassar City. This region holds the oldest traces of human civilization in Southeast Asia and plays a crucial role in the political dynamics of the Bugis-Makassar kingdoms.

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Prehistoric Roots and the Era of Kingdoms

Maros's history began long before written records existed. In the Leang-Leang complex, cave wall paintings of hand stencils and pig-deer drawings, estimated to be 45,500 years old, were discovered. This finding places Maros as a central point for the migration of ancient humans in the Nusantara.

Entering the era of kingdoms, the Maros region initially consisted of small kingdoms known as Toddo Limayya (Simbangi, Tanralili, Bontoa, Lau, and Marusu). The Marusu Kingdom, founded by Karaeng Loe ri Pakere in the 15th century, became the dominant power. Maros held a strategic position as a food granary contested by two major powers: the Gowa Kingdom and the Bone Kingdom. In the 16th century, under the rule of the 9th King of Gowa, Tumapa'risi' Kallonna, Maros was integrated into Gowa's sphere of influence to strengthen the kingdom's maritime defense and logistics.

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Colonial Period and People's Resistance

The presence of the VOC in the 17th century changed the political landscape of Maros. After the Bongaya Treaty in 1667, Dutch influence began to seep in. However, Maros never truly submitted. One of the central figures in the resistance was I Makkulau Daeng Serang, Karaeng Loe ri Marusu, who fiercely opposed Dutch hegemony.

During the Makassar War, the Maros region became a fierce battlefield. The Dutch then established a Regentschap (Regency) system in Maros to facilitate administrative control. Nevertheless, the spirit of resistance continued to burn until the early 20th century, with local figures engaging in guerrilla warfare in the rugged karst forests.

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Era of Independence and People's Struggle

After the Proclamation of Independence in 1945, the people of Maros actively participated in the struggle to defend their independence. Maros youth groups joined the ranks of rebels against the return of NICA. One heroic event was the battle at Mandai Airport (now Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport), involving local fighters in an effort to seize vital objects from the hands of the allies. Based on Law No. 29 of 1959, Maros was officially established as a Second Level Region under the Province of South Sulawesi.

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Cultural Heritage and Modern Development

Culturally, Maros is a meeting point for the Bugis and Makassar ethnicities, reflected in the Bentong language and local traditions. The Appalili ritual, a traditional ceremony before descending to the rice fields by the kingdoms in Maros, is still preserved as a symbol of food sovereignty.

Today, Maros is developing into an international air transportation hub and a global ecotourism destination through Bantimurung-Bulusaraung National Park. With five directly bordering regions—Makassar, Pangkep, Bone, Gowa, and the Makassar Strait—Maros has transformed from an agrarian region into a new economic growth center that remains grounded in its rich prehistoric history and past heroism.

Geography

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Geographical Profile of Maros Regency, South Sulawesi

Maros Regency is a strategic area located in the central part of South Sulawesi Province. Administratively, this region covers a land area of 1,447.05 km². Although South Sulawesi has a long coastline, geographically, the core area of Maros is situated in the center, surrounded by land and directly bordering five administrative regions: Makassar City, Gowa Regency, Bone Regency, Pangkajene and Islands Regency (Pangkep), and the Makassar Strait on its small western side.

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Topography and Distinct Natural Landscapes

Maros's geographical characteristics are very unique due to the dominance of a combination of fertile lowlands and magnificent karst mountain ranges. This region is famous for the Maros-Pangkep Karst area, which is one of the largest and most beautiful karst ecosystems in the world. This landscape includes towering limestone towers (tower karst), hidden valleys, and complex underground cave systems like Leang-Leang. In the east, the topography changes to hills and mountains, part of the Latimojong mountain range, creating a contrasting gradient of elevation from lowlands to green peaks.

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Hydrology and Water Resources

Maros's hydrological system is influenced by the presence of the Maros River, which bisects the regency. This river is the main lifeline for agricultural irrigation and domestic needs. Besides surface rivers, Maros has rich underground rivers flowing within the karst caves, providing abundant groundwater reserves throughout the year. The iconic Bantimurung Waterfall demonstrates how water flow from the highlands cascades through the gaps in the limestone cliffs, creating a clear and mineral-rich river ecosystem.

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Climate and Seasonal Variations

Maros has a tropical wet climate influenced by monsoon winds. The rainy season typically runs from November to April, with very high rainfall influenced by the orography of the eastern mountains, which triggers cloud condensation. Conversely, the dry season occurs from May to October. Air temperatures vary between 23°C in the hilly areas to 32°C in the lowlands, with relatively high humidity throughout the year.

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Natural Resource Wealth and Biodiversity

The agricultural sector is the backbone of the economy, utilizing the lowlands for productive technical rice fields. In the forestry and mineral sectors, Maros possesses high-quality limestone and marble potential derived from its karst rock formations. Ecologically, Maros is home to "The Kingdom of Butterfly" in the Bantimurung Bulusaraung National Park area. This ecological zone harbors high biodiversity, including endemic species like the Sulawesi black macaque (Macaca maura) and various rare flora that grow in the crevices of the limestone cliffs, making Maros a region of immense global conservation value.

Culture

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Maros: Gateway to Karst and the Heritage of South Sulawesi's Civilization

Maros Regency, located in the central part of South Sulawesi, is more than just a buffer region for Makassar City. With an area of 1447.05 km², Maros holds cultural depth rooted in the harmonious blend of agrarian traditions and the grandeur of the Rammang-Rammang and Leang-Leang karst landscapes. As a region bordering five areas (Makassar, Gowa, Bone, Pangkep, and the Makassar Strait to the northwest), Maros is a meeting point of Bugis and Makassar cultures.

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Traditions, Customs, and Local Ceremonies

The people of Maros strongly adhere to the value of Siri’ na Pesse, a philosophy of honor and empathy. One of the enduring traditions is Appalili, a customary ceremony marking the start of the rice planting season. This ceremony is led by customary leaders to pray for abundant harvests. Additionally, there is the Ma’dulu-dulu tradition, a communal work ritual celebrating the Prophet Muhammad's birthday by decorating banana trees with colorful eggs and kaddo minyak (sticky rice).

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Traditional Arts, Music, and Dance

Performing arts in Maros are heavily influenced by percussive rhythms. Gendang Bulo is an expressive folk dance that combines music, comedy, and agile movements, reflecting the joyfulness of the community. Maros is also known for its cultural Paralayang or Pabatte Passapu attraction, a skill-based performance using traditional headwear. In terms of music, the beat of the Pui-pui (a wind instrument) often accompanies the reception of honored guests.

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Signature Cuisine and Gastronomic Richness

Maros is a paradise for traditional culinary enthusiasts. Its main icon is Roti Maros, a soft bread with a distinctive kaya jam filling cooked with a hereditary recipe. Furthermore, there is the Maros-style Jalangkote, which has a thinner and crispier crust. In coastal and riverine areas, people enjoy preparing boneless milkfish (Bandeng Tanpa Duri) and Bebek Palekko, a dish rich in spicy herbs, which is a symbol of hospitality for important guests.

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Language and Local Dialects

The people of Maros speak the Makassar language with a distinct local dialect, as well as the Bugis language in some sub-districts bordering Bone and Pangkep. One unique expression is the use of the particles "ji" or "ki" in daily conversation, indicating politeness or sentence emphasis, reflecting the community's friendly yet firm character.

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Traditional Attire and Textiles

During customary events, the people of Maros wear the Baju Bodo for women, which is one of the oldest garments in the world. The color of the Baju Bodo indicates the wearer's social stratum and age. Meanwhile, men wear the Jas Tutu’ paired with Lipa’ Sabbe (a typical South Sulawesi silk sarong) woven with Cacca or Balo Lobang motifs.

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Religious Practices and Cultural Festivals

Religious life in Maros is deeply imbued with Islamic nuances blended with local wisdom. One of its spiritual centers is the Khalwatiah Sammang area in Pattene, which attracts thousands of pilgrims during Islamic holidays. The local government also regularly holds the Bantimurung Festival, a celebration that highlights the natural wealth of "The Kingdom of Butterflies" while showcasing cultural parades from various sub-districts in Maros.

Tourism

Exploring Maros: Majestic Karst Gateway in the Heart of South Sulawesi

Maros Regency is a hidden gem spanning 1447.05 km² strategically located in the central part of South Sulawesi. As a buffer region for the provincial capital, Maros directly borders five administrative areas: Makassar, Gowa, Bone, Pangkep, and the Makassar Strait. Maros is not just a transit point but a world-class destination offering ancient geological wonders and authentic cultural richness.

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Natural Wonders: Karst Labyrinth and Waterfalls

Maros is home to the second-largest karst area in the world, Rammang-Rammang. Visitors will be mesmerized by the clusters of towering limestone towers amidst vast green rice fields. Furthermore, Bantimurung-Bulusaraung National Park is a major magnet, known as "The Kingdom of Butterfly." Here, you can enjoy the refreshing Bantimurung Waterfall and explore exotic natural caves with active stalactites and stalagmites.

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Traces of Civilization at Prehistoric Sites

For history buffs, Maros offers a spiritual experience through Leang-Leang. This site holds the memories of ancient humans in the form of red rock paintings and pig-deer drawings on cave walls, estimated to be tens of thousands of years old. The experience of seeing the oldest traces of civilization in the world firsthand provides a deep perspective on human history in Sulawesi.

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Adventure and Outdoor Activities

Your adventurous spirit will be tested by navigating the Pute River on a traditional jolloro boat to Berua Village. For extreme sports enthusiasts, climbing Mount Bulusaraung offers a challenging route with the reward of spectacular sunrise views. Additionally, caving in Gua Salukang Kallang, which has the longest underground river system in Indonesia, is a must-do for explorers.

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Culinary Tourism and Local Hospitality

A trip to Maros is incomplete without tasting the legendary Roti Maros—a soft bread with a distinctive rich jam. You must also try Coto Maros, which has a different spice flavor from the Makassar version. The people of Maros are known for their warm hospitality, upholding the value of Siri’ na Pesse. For accommodation, there are various options ranging from star hotels in the city center to floating homestays in the Rammang-Rammang area for a more immersive nature experience.

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Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Maros is during the dry season, between June and September. During this period, access to caves is safer, and the waterfall's water discharge is at its clearest, making it ideal for landscape photography and outdoor activities. Maros is not just a destination; it is a narrative of nature and history waiting for you to write it into your travel memories.

Economy

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Economic Profile of Maros Regency: South Sulawesi's Supporting Gateway

Maros Regency, with an area of 1447.05 km², plays a vital role in the economic constellation of South Sulawesi. Located in a strategic "central" position as the main link between Makassar City and the northern regions of the province, Maros is not merely a buffer zone but an independent economic growth center with strong sector diversification.

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Agriculture and Food Security Sector

Traditionally, Maros is known as one of South Sulawesi's food granaries. Although its territory is surrounded by hilly land to the east (Maros-Pangkep Karst Area), the food crop agriculture sector remains dominant. Rice and corn are superior commodities supported by an adequate technical irrigation system. Furthermore, the horticulture sector in highland areas like Tompobulu contributes significantly to the supply of vegetables for the Mamminasata metropolitan market.

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Industrial Sector and Strategic Infrastructure

Maros's most prominent economic advantage lies in the presence of an international-scale air transportation infrastructure, Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport. The existence of this airport has spurred massive growth in the service, logistics, and warehousing sectors. In the processing industry sector, Maros is home to large-scale cement industries (PT Semen Bosowa) that utilize mineral deposits in the karst mountains. The presence of these industries creates a multiplier effect on local employment absorption and the growth of MSMEs in the surrounding areas.

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Nature Tourism and Creative Economy

Maros's tourism sector has unique characteristics not found in other regions. The Maros-Pangkep National Geopark area, especially the Rammang-Rammang and Bantimurung-Bulusaraung National Park destinations, attracts domestic and international tourists. Its economic impact is evident in the proliferation of homestay businesses, tour guide services, and signature culinary offerings. The local creative economy also thrives through distinctive handicrafts, such as woven products and processed foods made from milkfish and Roti Maros, which have become regional souvenir icons.

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Employment and Future Development

The employment trend in Maros shows a shift from purely agrarian sectors towards services and trade. As part of the strategic Mamminasata area, Maros continues to develop new industrial zones to attract investment. Although it does not have a vast coastline compared to its neighboring regions, Maros's economy remains integrated with the maritime distribution network through its proximity to Makassar Port, making it a crucial land-air logistics hub.

The local government focuses on improving the quality of human resources to fill the labor needs in the airport industry and service sectors. With the integration of karst natural wealth, the strength of the cement industry, and its strategic transportation position, Maros Regency continues to transform into a modern economic pillar in the heart of South Sulawesi.

Demographics

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Demographic Profile of Maros Regency, South Sulawesi

Maros Regency is a strategic area in South Sulawesi with an area of 1,447.05 km². Located in a central position connecting Makassar City with the northern regions of the province, Maros has dynamic demographic characteristics as a primary hinterland in the Mamminasata metropolitan area.

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Population Structure and Density

Based on the latest data, the population of Maros Regency has exceeded 400,000 people. Population density is concentrated in areas directly bordering Makassar, such as Turikale and Mandai Sub-districts, while mountainous areas in the east like Mallawa have lower densities. Maros's population structure is dominated by the productive age group (15-64 years), forming an expansive population pyramid that indicates a still relatively stable birth rate but with significant growth in the young age groups.

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Ethnic Composition and Cultural Diversity

The Bugis and Makassar ethnic groups are the main pillars of the ethnic composition in Maros. Uniquely, Maros is often considered a linguistic and cultural transition point between these two major ethnic groups. Although the majority are Muslim, there is a diversity of preserved traditions, especially in the Rammang-Rammang karst area and Bantimurung-Bulusaraung National Park, where local communities still practice local wisdom in managing natural resources.

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Education and Literacy Rates

Literacy rates in Maros Regency show a positive trend with a literacy rate above 95%. The local government focuses on improving the average length of schooling, supported by the presence of various vocational education institutions and close access to higher education in Makassar. The education sector in Maros is also strengthened by the presence of large Islamic boarding schools that serve as religious education magnets for residents from outside the region.

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Urbanization and Migration Dynamics

As a region with Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Mandai Sub-district, Maros experiences high in-migration patterns. Urbanization occurs not only due to the movement of rural populations to the urban center of Turikale but also as a result of population spillover from Makassar seeking housing in the border areas of Maros. This creates a dynamic commuter society that works in Makassar but lives in Maros.

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Unique Demographic Characteristics

One of Maros's unique demographic characteristics is the significantly high proportion of the population employed in the service and transportation sectors compared to neighboring regencies, driven by airport operations and the cement industry. Furthermore, as a non-coastal area in its administrative center, the people of Maros have a strong connection to the wet-land agriculture sector and agritourism, which remain the primary employers in rural areas.