Parepare

History

History and Development of Parepare City: The Trade Gateway of South Sulawesi

Origins and Kingdom Era

Parepare City, located on the west coast of the South Sulawesi peninsula, has historical roots deeply intertwined with local confederations of kingdoms. The name "Parepare" etymologically originates from an expression by the King of Gowa, who was impressed upon seeing the natural harbor in this area and exclaimed, "Bajiki Ni Pare", meaning "this harbor is well-made." Historically, this area of 87.71 km² was a strategic meeting point between the Kingdom of Bone, the Kingdom of Sawitto (Pinrang), the Kingdom of Rappang (Sidenreng Rappang), and the Kingdom of Barru. As a central region connecting the mainland with sea routes, Parepare developed as a port for collecting agricultural produce from the interior of Ajatappareng.

Dutch Colonial Era

The presence of a calm and deep harbor greatly interested the Dutch East Indies Government. In the early 20th century, after the signing of the Korte Verklaring (Short Declaration), the Dutch began to develop Parepare as an administrative and economic center in the northern region of South Sulawesi. The Dutch built the city's infrastructure in a raster pattern, which is still visible today in the harbor area. Parepare became the seat of an Assistant Resident overseeing the Afdeling Parepare region. During this period, the city transformed into a major export point for copra and rice commodities, making it one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Sulawesi besides Makassar.

Era of the Independence Struggle

Entering the era of the independence struggle, Parepare witnessed the tenacity of local fighters against Dutch military aggression. Figures like Andi Makkasau played crucial roles in mobilizing the people against the NICA occupation through struggle militia organizations. Heroic events occurred when Dutch troops under the command of Raymond Westerling conducted military operations in this area; however, the spirit of the people's resistance remained ablaze. In the early period of independence, Parepare was designated as a Municipality based on Law Number 29 of 1959, solidifying its status as an independent political entity under South Sulawesi Province.

Cultural Heritage and National Figures

One of the most proud historical facts is Parepare's position as the birthplace of the 3rd President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prof. Dr. Ing. B.J. Habibie, on June 25, 1936. This emotional connection is immortalized through the Monumen Cinta Sejati Habibie-Ainun (Habibie-Ainun True Love Monument) in the city center. Culturally, Parepare is a melting pot of Bugis ethnicities who hold firm to the philosophy of Siri’ na Pesse. A strong maritime tradition is reflected in the stilt house architecture along the coast and the preservation of local wisdom values in trade.

Modern Development and Strategic Significance

Today, Parepare is growing into a modern service and trade city. Despite bordering four main regions—Pinrang to the north, Sidrap to the east, and Barru to the south—the city maintains its identity as the "Madani Port City." Infrastructure development such as the Nusantara Port and the Makassar-Parepare Railway Station marks a new chapter in the city's history as a major logistics hub in Central Indonesia, massively connecting the Sulawesi mainland with Kalimantan and the eastern regions of Indonesia.