West Muna

History

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History and Development of West Muna Regency

Origins and Roots of the Muna Kingdom

The history of West Muna cannot be separated from the existence of the Muna Kingdom (Wuna), which was one of the oldest political entities in Southeast Sulawesi. Historically, the West Muna region encompasses the Laworo area, which played a vital role in the kingdom's defense structure. The name "Laworo" itself refers to a defense fort and a local administrative center in the past. The people in this region are direct descendants of clans loyal to the King of Muna (Bhardugina). Since the 14th century, this area has been an agricultural and military strategic base for the kingdom in facing pressure from the Sultanate of Buton and external influences.

Colonial Era and People's Resistance

During the Dutch colonial period, the West Muna region bore silent witness to political tensions between local authorities and the VOC, which later continued to the Dutch East Indies government. In the early 20th century, specifically around 1906, the Dutch began to strengthen their influence on the Muna mainland. Local figures from the Laworo district were known for their persistent defense of their customary autonomy. Resistance from the people of West Muna was often carried out through guerrilla tactics in the vast teak forests, which to this day remain a geographical identity of the region. The Kadi administrative system implemented by the Dutch temporarily altered the traditional order, but the Barata customary structure continued to live among the community.

Independence Era and Administrative Struggle

After the proclamation of Indonesian independence in 1945, West Muna became part of Muna Regency. The struggle to become an autonomous region had actually been pioneered for a long time by community leaders such as La Ode M. Rajiun Tumada and youth elements. The peak occurred in the 2010s, when the aspiration for expansion strengthened for the sake of equitable development. Based on Law Number 14 of 2014, West Muna officially stood as an independent regency, separated from its parent regency. The inauguration of the first acting regent marked a new chapter for this 773.49 km² area to manage its potential independently in the heart of Southeast Sulawesi.

Cultural Heritage and Local Identity

The rich history of West Muna is reflected in the "Kasambu" tradition, a customary ritual as a form of gratitude and prayer for the safety of the family. Furthermore, the martial art "Ewa Muna" and the dance "Linda" are still preserved as ancestral heritage. One prominent historical site is the Laworo Fort, which stands as a symbol of the local community's resilience in defending their territorial sovereignty in the past.

Modern Development and Connectivity

Today, West Muna is developing as a new growth center with a strategic "central" position connecting land trade routes. Although administratively it does not directly border a large coastline (non-coastal), the region has high accessibility to nearby ports and airports. The current development focus is directed towards strengthening the agricultural sector and urban infrastructure in Laworo, making it one of the "Epic" regions with significant agrarian potential in the economic constellation of Southeast Sulawesi.