North Halmahera Regency
Encyclopedia
North Halmahera Regency or Halmahera Utara is a regency (sub province) of Halmahera
in North Maluku
Province, Indonesia
. It was declared a Regency on 31 May 2003. The capital town of the regency lies at the port of Tobelo
. The regency covers an area of 24983.32 square kilometre – 19536 square kilometre of sea area and 5477.3 square kilometre land area – and as of 2006 had a population of 221,169 people. The principal settlements are Tobelo
, Kao
and Galela
. The area is noted for its white beaches and coral reefs.
Apart from the importance of its 115 islands (19 have remained unnamed) for spices, North Hamahera was the World War II
base camp. The Japan
ese and the America
n allies fought for its control. From the island of Morotai
, Americans headed by the General of the Army
Douglas MacArthur
prepared for an attack on the Philippines
.
Halmahera and its small islands are located in the Coral Triangle
, which has rich marine life. Marine biodiversity data on reef fishes was collected during a rapid survey conducted at 28 locations in 2005 in the south-western part of Halmahera. Explorer Gerry Allen, during his diving surveys in 2005, recorded 803 species of reef fishes.
During the 15th and 16th centuries, the area was generally within the sphere of influence of the powerful sultanate on the island of Ternate. A larger region, called Moro
, included the island of Morotai and parts of the North Halmahera coastline
The Portuguese
were a formidable presence in the area and they built a number of fortifications and controlled the island Ternate
, off the southwest coast of the North Halmahera Regency. In the mid-16th century, a Portuguese Jesuit mission visited Hakmahera and Morotai
. This created conflict with Muslims who at the time controlled Ternate and Halmahera and in 1571, they drove the Christians from Morotai.
In the early 17th century, the town of Dodinga, strategically located on Halmahera's west coast grew in influence. In 1627 and 1628, Sultan Hamzah of Ternate
had much of the Christian population of the island moved to Malaya, on Ternate. Later, it was administered under the Dutch East Indies
.
North Halmahera, particularly Morotai, played a role in World War II
. Morotai
island was captured by the Japanese
in early 1942. Morotai's southern plain was taken by American
forces in September 1944 during the Battle of Morotai
, and used as a staging point for the Allied invasion of the Philippines
in early 1945, and of Borneo
in May and June of that year. Japanese soldier Teruo Nakamura
was discovered in the Morotai jungle in 1974, as one of the WWII Japanese soldiers who held out subsequent to the Japanese military's surrender
.
Since the 1980s, mining development and logging has dramatically increased in the area, often causing conflict with local inhabitants. The communities are dependent on fishing and forests and the financial benefits of these resources have gone to Jakarta
and local elites outside Halmahera. These developments have also increased religious tension in the region. The Christians of North Halmahera were traditionally said to generally live a peaceful co-existence with Muslims, but violence broke out between the two religious groups in December 1999 and has since been the primary cause of conflict in the region. Many of the Christians on the island fled to Tobelo as a haven when the violence broke out. Shortly after the official area of the North Halmahera Regency was declared on 31 May 2003, in July 2003, 38 villages in Halmahera staged a protest against the Australia
n mining company Newcrest who is mining gold in the region.
When the decision was made to create the regency of North Halmahera, it was promised in the national parliament in Jakarta that a duty-free port similar to Batam
would be established on Morotai island. However, this never happened, as internal conflict led to a demand that Morotai should be separated from the regency. Hein Namotoma, a Christian politician, rejected this move, given that Morotai is overwhelmingly Muslim. In August 2006, five members of the North Halmahera district legislature from Golkar
, including Abdul Gafur lobbied in the national capital for the independence of Morotai from the regency. This was approved by the Committee II in Jakarta and also by the provincial governor Thaib Armaiyn. From February to April 2007, supporters of the Morotai independence movement sealed off the government headquarters, demanding that Morotai should become independent immediately. The split was delayed and in 2008, Namotoma's group were all that stood in the way of the split. Fearing a repeat of the 1999-2000 violence, Namotoma backed down. During the 2009 elections in Indonesia a governor candidate for Morotai was elected and it became a new regency.
. It occupies roughly half of the northern mainland section of the island and includes the larger island of Morotai to the northeast of the headland and smaller islands off the northwest coast of Halmahera. Including many of the smaller islands and islets the regency has jurisdiction over 115 islands in total. The island of Ternate, noted for its distinct volcanic cone
lies off the southwest coast of the regency.
Natural ecosystems found in the two regions in North Halmahera Regency, among others, include coral reefs, mangrove forests, seagrass beds, sandy beaches, rocky beaches, estuaries, lagoons and deltas. While artificial ecosystems, among others, include the areas of tourism, ports and fish landing centres, cultivated areas and residential areas of society. The coral reefs of North Halmahera are of particular note, and form part of the Coral Triangle
which is world-renowned for its coastal and marine biodiversity, which includes 70 genera of corals and about 2,500 fish species, about 70 percent of all fish species known to the western Indo-Pacific. The Wildlife Conservation Society
is working with the Department of Marine Fisheries-DKP of the provincial government of North Maluku to monitor this environment.
Marine conservation and tourism
Halmahera's marine biodiversity and rich marine resources are receiving the needed marine conservation priority attention. The objective of this attention is to combine it with development of other economic sectors such as fisheries, marine tourism, oil and gas, and achieve a sustainable economic development of the marine resources and conserve its marine diversity value. To take appropriate decisions in the matter, the Nature Conservancy, WWF-Indonesia and other partners have initiated studies for a preliminary assessment on the prospects for "marine conservation and tourism in the Halmahera area". The surveys also cover study of the ecological link between Halmahera and the Bird's Head Seascape to the east and the Sulu-Sulawesi Seascape on the west.
As of 2006, North Halmahera had a population of 221,169 people. The main native ethnic groups are Tobelorese, Galelarese, Lolodarese, Kaonese, Pagu and Modole. The remaining 10% are immigrants, mainly from Java
, Sulawesi
and other parts of North Maluku, especially Makian Island. Apart from the Indonesian language, natives have their own languages and one such language is Tabelo spoken by about 15,000 people in the island of Halhamera.
About 75% of the population of North Halmahera are dependent on agriculture, especially plantation coconut
and clove
. In 2004, coconut production amounted to 55435 hectares (136,982.7 acre) and 66.199 thousand tonnes and cloves 3,175.5 hectares and 320.71 tonnes. Palm plantation area in 2002 amounted to 47900 hectares (118,363.4 acre) with a production of 68.5 thousand tonnes. Sub Tobelo, South Tobelo and Galela are the highest oil producing areas and contain several oil terminals. Aside from those mentioned above, the main crops grown are banana
, rice
, corn
, peanut
s, soybean
s, cassava
, maize
, coffee
, cocoa, nutmeg
and some types of fruits such as orange
s, mango
and durian
. Some types of livestock have been developed, including goat, cattle, chickens, hens, and pigs. The North Halmahera Regency has some 536000 hectares (1,324,483.7 acre) of forest, 145500 hectares (359,538 acre) of which is protected and 26250 hectares (64,865.1 acre) of which is under production. Mining reserves have been identified in the area, namely gold
, natural gas
and nickel ore. There are gold mines in Kao District and Loloda District (Dotia village). Geothermal energy resources are also available in the District of Galela (Mamuya village). On Doi Island, some reserves of iron and copper have been found.
Based on research results of the Marine Fisheries Research Institute (1983), the potential of fish resources (standing stock) found in North Halmahera waters is estimated at 644,382.48 tonnes. Fishing is important to the economic activity of the region. Most people in North Halmahera Regency inhabit coastal areas and depend upon these marine ecosystems as a source of social economic life. Until the year 2002, the contribution of capture fisheries production amounted to 98,782.21 tonnes or roughly 65% of the total overall production. In addition to the fish resources, several types of other resources have high economic value and have been exploited by the fishing communities in the coastal areas and small islands, such as crustacea, Egg Sea cucumbers (Holothuroidea), mollusc, and seaweed
. The fishing equipment used by most fishermen in the region of North Halmahera is traditional, such as nets. The extent of coastal and marine areas with a high water quality allows for the development of marine aquaculture
, especially Grouper
, lobster
, seaweed and pearl
s. Until now, optimisation and productivity of aquaculture in North Halamahera has been low. Until the year 2002 the total area of cultivation of marine, brackish and pond reached 128,110 ha, producing just 46.550 tonnes, or 0.03% of the total volume of production.
There is an availability of facilities and infrastructure to support the economy such as ports, banks, markets and primary business activity which is predominantly concentrated in the capital of Tobelo. GDP in 2005 amounted to 373,693.21 million rupee. In the year 2003, the economy of North Halmahera increased 2.93%, 3.33% in 2004, and 3.54% in 2005.
Traditional weddings in the capital of Tobelo are also said to be among the most colourful in Maluku and the Christians follow traditions during their wedding ceremonies, with traditional music and dance. A wedding is typically accompanied by traditional Tobelorese music, played with gongs and drums and a Cakele dance is usually performed in front of the bride as she approaches the groom. Around the time of New Year, Tobelo attracts a number of Yangere groups (such as the Orang Hutan band etc.) from all over North Halmahera who perform music and dances.
The Tobelo language
is spoken across North Halmahera by approximately 15,000 people.
, local church congregations hold a competition to see who can create the best Easter garden.
Riots
In the beginning of 1999, there were ethnic clashes between Muslims and Christians in Ambon city
, particularly in North Maluka where the Muslim community of the Makina
community attacked Christians. A pastor was killed and churches were destroyed. This disturbed the peace that existed between the two communities in Galelo and Tabelo, both Christian majority towns. The issue got aggravated in spite of efforts by both groups for reconciliation. Several thousand Christians fled from Central Halmahera and took shelter in Tobelo and it turned into a refugee camp. However, outside forces precipitated the issue and there was a gradual built up of tension in the region, which ultimately resulted in the worst rioting in Tabelo on 24 December 1999, which spread to other towns as well. Remnants of this rioting are still seen and an atmosphere of mistrust prevails. Galileo subdistrict is another town where remnants of strife (burnt out churches and mosques) between religious groups are still seen with military checkposts.
Kakara Island with its the oldest Hibualamo near Tobelo is well known for the Tobelorese culture. Those interested in The Hibualamo or village hall, built in traditional style has historical Tobelorese artifacts.
Rorangane island
Rorangane island, uninhabited island a short distance from Tobelo harbour; has a white sand beach. The sea waters have coral reefs at a depth of 10–30 metres. It is a good location for diving and swimming.
Somola bay
Somola bay is a group of small rich in mangrove forest that grow out of the rocks. Its waters are clear, good for canoeing and also fishing migrate. Pune village in Galela district is the nearest to this bay.
Sumsum island
Sumsum island a small islet about 3 miles from Daruba town and port of Morotai, is known for historicity interest because General of the Army
Douglas MacArthur
, commander of the Allied Forces in the Asia Pacific region during World War II stayed here and prepared for attack on the Philippines. War relics in the form of bunker that served as headquarters and the landing site of amphibious ships can be seen here.
Dodola island
Dodola island, close to Morotai Island, has a swathe of white sand beaches that links to Dodola Besar and Dodola Kecil islands. Set is beautiful surroundings its waters are clear and ideal for swimming, diving and snorkelling.
Dorume beach records huge waves in December, which is good for surfing. The fine sands in the beach shine in the sun due its metallic contents. Tobotobo coral gardens of Loloda Islands district, approached from Dorume beach, have reefs which are good for diving and snorkelling.
Posiposi beach
Posiposi beach, though secluded, has lovely vistas in palm fringed crescent setting. Its attractions are: large waves, reefs and the Mandi waterfall.
Gamlaha beach
Gamlaha beach, a pristine beach, has white sands and calm waters. Coconut palms provide shades under which the Bobale island could be viewed.
Sosol beach
Sosol beach is the scene of Tosimaru Ship Wreck, a WW II Japanese cargo ship. It is in Malifut district. It has 1 km stretch of black sand beach and has calm waters. However, it becomes very wide during low tide.
Pitu beach
Pitu beach has 50 metres (164 ft) width during low tide in its length of 530 metres (1,738.8 ft). It has black sand on its beach where beach volleyball or soccer games are played. It is a safe place to swim even for children. It has a rich marine life.
Bobale beach
Bobale beach in the Bobale island is approached from the coast of Daru village in Kao
district. It has white sand on its beaches and also coral gardens, and the marine life is found in depths of 2–10 m (6.6–32.8 ft) and is also good for diving.
Kupakupa beach
Kupakupa beach has large banyan trees on its shores that provide sheltered location in the bay and keeps the waters quiet. Watersports like swimming, canoeing and snorkelling are popular here. The coral reefs in the northern section of the beach are considered one of the best in the coast of North Halmahera.
Kumo beach
Kumo beach on the Kumo island is very near to Tobelo and accessed by motorized canoe. It is set with scenic surroundings and is popular place for swimming. It gives a lovely view of the Tobelo town.
Luari beach
Luari beach is set in the ethnic Galelarese village of Luari, to the north of Tobelo on the Pacific Ocean. Its calm waters provide for good swimming, canoeing and snorkelling. Sunset views from the cape to its north, from Mount Tarakani and the coast of Galela are an attraction to visitors.
Batu Kopi
Batu Kopi means coffee
rock. It is located at Posiposi-Rao beach in the South-West Morotai district. Its name is derived from a local tale that professes aroma of coffee emerging from this rock. This aroma is noted during late afternoons.
Telaga Paca is a small crater lake close to Tobelo town to the south – a few km off the main road. The lake is set in a backdrop of thickly forested hills. There is also a small village by the same name Talaga Paca near the lake, which has a lookout area erected over stilts in the water to view the lake. A canoe could be hired to paddle in the lake. It is the source for drinking water to the village. Villagers do fishing in the lake.
Duma-galela lake
Duma-galela lake is the largest freshwater lake of the Halmahera island. The lake is used for swimming, fishing and canoeing. Bamboo rafts are also used on the lake. Two smaller crater lakes namely Makete and Ngidiho are also in its vicinity.
Tobotobo marine park in Tobotobo village in he Loloda Islands district has coral reef which is good for diving and snorkelling. Fruit-bats abound here roosting in the mangroves. A unique sight seen here is of the wild green and white pigeons bathing in the sea near the village.
Mount Dukono is a 185 metres (607 ft) high volcano that is one of three most active volcanoes not only in Halmahera island but also in Indonesia. The volcanic mountain is accessed from the Mamuya village. There is a volcanology information centre which provides latest information on the current status of the volcano.
Mamuya hot spring in Mamuya village in Galelo is a hot spring emanating from a volcano by the same name. Spring water is said to have curing qualities for skin problems and hence is a popular attraction among the local people. It is only 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) from Tobelo town.
Wangongira rice field
Wangongira rice fields are known for the special variety of rice grown along the swift flowing river called Molulu. It is located in Wangongira village in West Tobelo.
World War II Japanese tunnels
World War II Japanese tunnels, located below the road, are in the Samuda and Duma villages of West Galela District. The tunnels were used by the Japanese army during WW II. The one in Samuda Tunnel is 20 meters with many rooms and halls.
Halmahera
Halmahera is the largest island in the Maluku Islands. It is part of the North Maluku province of Indonesia.Halmahera has a land area of 17,780 km² and a population in 1995 of 162,728...
in North Maluku
North Maluku
North Maluku is a province of northeastern Indonesia. It covers the northern part of the Maluku Islands, which are split between it and the province of Maluku. Maluku province used to cover the entire group...
Province, Indonesia
Indonesia
Indonesia , officially the Republic of Indonesia , is a country in Southeast Asia and Oceania. Indonesia is an archipelago comprising approximately 13,000 islands. It has 33 provinces with over 238 million people, and is the world's fourth most populous country. Indonesia is a republic, with an...
. It was declared a Regency on 31 May 2003. The capital town of the regency lies at the port of Tobelo
Tobelo
Tobelo is a town and also a district on the eastern Indonesian island of Halmahera. It is the capital of the regency of North Halmahera, part of the province of North Maluku. The city was formalised as the capital of North Halmahera in the district elections held in 2004...
. The regency covers an area of 24983.32 square kilometre – 19536 square kilometre of sea area and 5477.3 square kilometre land area – and as of 2006 had a population of 221,169 people. The principal settlements are Tobelo
Tobelo
Tobelo is a town and also a district on the eastern Indonesian island of Halmahera. It is the capital of the regency of North Halmahera, part of the province of North Maluku. The city was formalised as the capital of North Halmahera in the district elections held in 2004...
, Kao
Kao, Indonesia
Kao is a small coastal town on the eastern Indonesian island of Halmahera. It is located in the North Halmahera Regency, part of the province of North Maluku. It is connected by a coastal road to Tobelo, about an hour's drive to the north. Kao cemetery is located to the northwest of the town....
and Galela
Galela
Galela is a small town on the eastern Indonesian island of Halmahera. It is located in the North Halmahera Regency, part of the province of North Maluku. It is connected by a palm tree lined road to Tobelo in the south. Views of Mount Tarakan can be seen from the scenic coast...
. The area is noted for its white beaches and coral reefs.
Apart from the importance of its 115 islands (19 have remained unnamed) for spices, North Hamahera was the World War II
World War II
World War II, or the Second World War , was a global conflict lasting from 1939 to 1945, involving most of the world's nations—including all of the great powers—eventually forming two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis...
base camp. The Japan
Japan
Japan is an island nation in East Asia. Located in the Pacific Ocean, it lies to the east of the Sea of Japan, China, North Korea, South Korea and Russia, stretching from the Sea of Okhotsk in the north to the East China Sea and Taiwan in the south...
ese and the America
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
n allies fought for its control. From the island of Morotai
Morotai
Morotai Island Regency is a regency of North Maluku province, Indonesia, located on Morotai Island. The population was 54,876 in 2007.-History:...
, Americans headed by the General of the Army
General of the Army (United States)
General of the Army is a five-star general officer and is the second highest possible rank in the United States Army. A special rank of General of the Armies, which ranks above General of the Army, does exist but has only been conferred twice in the history of the Army...
Douglas MacArthur
Douglas MacArthur
General of the Army Douglas MacArthur was an American general and field marshal of the Philippine Army. He was a Chief of Staff of the United States Army during the 1930s and played a prominent role in the Pacific theater during World War II. He received the Medal of Honor for his service in the...
prepared for an attack on the Philippines
Philippines
The Philippines , officially known as the Republic of the Philippines , is a country in Southeast Asia in the western Pacific Ocean. To its north across the Luzon Strait lies Taiwan. West across the South China Sea sits Vietnam...
.
Halmahera and its small islands are located in the Coral Triangle
Coral Triangle
The Coral Triangle is a geographical term so named as it refers to a roughly triangular area of the tropical marine waters of Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Solomon Islands and Timor-Leste that contain at least 500 species of reef-building corals in each ecoregion...
, which has rich marine life. Marine biodiversity data on reef fishes was collected during a rapid survey conducted at 28 locations in 2005 in the south-western part of Halmahera. Explorer Gerry Allen, during his diving surveys in 2005, recorded 803 species of reef fishes.
History
Moro
- Events :* Moro Crater massacre, an engagement in the Philippine-American War* Battle of the Moro, a World War II battle between mainly Canadian and German forces on the Moro river in Italy in 1943...
, included the island of Morotai and parts of the North Halmahera coastline
The Portuguese
Portugal
Portugal , officially the Portuguese Republic is a country situated in southwestern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula. Portugal is the westernmost country of Europe, and is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the West and South and by Spain to the North and East. The Atlantic archipelagos of the...
were a formidable presence in the area and they built a number of fortifications and controlled the island Ternate
Ternate
Ternate is an island in the Maluku Islands of eastern Indonesia. It is located off the west coast of the larger island of Halmahera, the center of the powerful former Sultanate of Ternate....
, off the southwest coast of the North Halmahera Regency. In the mid-16th century, a Portuguese Jesuit mission visited Hakmahera and Morotai
Morotai
Morotai Island Regency is a regency of North Maluku province, Indonesia, located on Morotai Island. The population was 54,876 in 2007.-History:...
. This created conflict with Muslims who at the time controlled Ternate and Halmahera and in 1571, they drove the Christians from Morotai.
In the early 17th century, the town of Dodinga, strategically located on Halmahera's west coast grew in influence. In 1627 and 1628, Sultan Hamzah of Ternate
Ternate
Ternate is an island in the Maluku Islands of eastern Indonesia. It is located off the west coast of the larger island of Halmahera, the center of the powerful former Sultanate of Ternate....
had much of the Christian population of the island moved to Malaya, on Ternate. Later, it was administered under the Dutch East Indies
Dutch East Indies
The Dutch East Indies was a Dutch colony that became modern Indonesia following World War II. It was formed from the nationalised colonies of the Dutch East India Company, which came under the administration of the Netherlands government in 1800....
.
World War II
World War II, or the Second World War , was a global conflict lasting from 1939 to 1945, involving most of the world's nations—including all of the great powers—eventually forming two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis...
. Morotai
Morotai
Morotai Island Regency is a regency of North Maluku province, Indonesia, located on Morotai Island. The population was 54,876 in 2007.-History:...
island was captured by the Japanese
Empire of Japan
The Empire of Japan is the name of the state of Japan that existed from the Meiji Restoration on 3 January 1868 to the enactment of the post-World War II Constitution of...
in early 1942. Morotai's southern plain was taken by American
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
forces in September 1944 during the Battle of Morotai
Battle of Morotai
The Battle of Morotai, part of the Pacific War, began on September 15, 1944, and continued until the war ended in August 1945. The fighting began when United States and Australian forces landed on the south-west corner of Morotai, a small island in the Netherlands East Indies , which the Allies...
, and used as a staging point for the Allied invasion of the Philippines
Philippines
The Philippines , officially known as the Republic of the Philippines , is a country in Southeast Asia in the western Pacific Ocean. To its north across the Luzon Strait lies Taiwan. West across the South China Sea sits Vietnam...
in early 1945, and of Borneo
Borneo
Borneo is the third largest island in the world and is located north of Java Island, Indonesia, at the geographic centre of Maritime Southeast Asia....
in May and June of that year. Japanese soldier Teruo Nakamura
Teruo Nakamura
Private was a Taiwan-born soldier of the Imperial Japanese Army who fought for Japan in World War II and did not surrender until 1974.His name in his native language appears to have been Attun Palalin...
was discovered in the Morotai jungle in 1974, as one of the WWII Japanese soldiers who held out subsequent to the Japanese military's surrender
Japanese holdout
Japanese holdouts or stragglers were Japanese soldiers in the Pacific Theatre who, after the August 1945 surrender of Japan that marked the end of World War II, either adamantly doubted the veracity of the formal surrender due to strong dogmatic or militaristic principles, or were not aware of it...
.
Since the 1980s, mining development and logging has dramatically increased in the area, often causing conflict with local inhabitants. The communities are dependent on fishing and forests and the financial benefits of these resources have gone to Jakarta
Jakarta
Jakarta is the capital and largest city of Indonesia. Officially known as the Special Capital Territory of Jakarta, it is located on the northwest coast of Java, has an area of , and a population of 9,580,000. Jakarta is the country's economic, cultural and political centre...
and local elites outside Halmahera. These developments have also increased religious tension in the region. The Christians of North Halmahera were traditionally said to generally live a peaceful co-existence with Muslims, but violence broke out between the two religious groups in December 1999 and has since been the primary cause of conflict in the region. Many of the Christians on the island fled to Tobelo as a haven when the violence broke out. Shortly after the official area of the North Halmahera Regency was declared on 31 May 2003, in July 2003, 38 villages in Halmahera staged a protest against the Australia
Australia
Australia , officially the Commonwealth of Australia, is a country in the Southern Hemisphere comprising the mainland of the Australian continent, the island of Tasmania, and numerous smaller islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It is the world's sixth-largest country by total area...
n mining company Newcrest who is mining gold in the region.
When the decision was made to create the regency of North Halmahera, it was promised in the national parliament in Jakarta that a duty-free port similar to Batam
Batam
Batam is an island and city in Riau Islands Province of Indonesia, known for its free trade zone area as part of the Sijori Growth Triangle, is located off Singapore's south coast...
would be established on Morotai island. However, this never happened, as internal conflict led to a demand that Morotai should be separated from the regency. Hein Namotoma, a Christian politician, rejected this move, given that Morotai is overwhelmingly Muslim. In August 2006, five members of the North Halmahera district legislature from Golkar
Golkar
The Party of the Functional Groups is a political party in Indonesia. It is also known as Sekber Golkar . It was the ruling party during Suharto's regime...
, including Abdul Gafur lobbied in the national capital for the independence of Morotai from the regency. This was approved by the Committee II in Jakarta and also by the provincial governor Thaib Armaiyn. From February to April 2007, supporters of the Morotai independence movement sealed off the government headquarters, demanding that Morotai should become independent immediately. The split was delayed and in 2008, Namotoma's group were all that stood in the way of the split. Fearing a repeat of the 1999-2000 violence, Namotoma backed down. During the 2009 elections in Indonesia a governor candidate for Morotai was elected and it became a new regency.
Geography and environment
The North Halmahera Regency is located in northeastern Indonesia between the islands of Papua and SulawesiSulawesi
Sulawesi is one of the four larger Sunda Islands of Indonesia and is situated between Borneo and the Maluku Islands. In Indonesia, only Sumatra, Borneo, and Papua are larger in territory, and only Java and Sumatra have larger Indonesian populations.- Etymology :The Portuguese were the first to...
. It occupies roughly half of the northern mainland section of the island and includes the larger island of Morotai to the northeast of the headland and smaller islands off the northwest coast of Halmahera. Including many of the smaller islands and islets the regency has jurisdiction over 115 islands in total. The island of Ternate, noted for its distinct volcanic cone
Volcanic cone
Volcanic cones are among the simplest volcanic formations. They are built by ejecta from a volcanic vent, piling up around the vent in the shape of a cone with a central crater. Volcanic cones are of different types, depending upon the nature and size of the fragments ejected during the eruption...
lies off the southwest coast of the regency.
Coral Triangle
The Coral Triangle is a geographical term so named as it refers to a roughly triangular area of the tropical marine waters of Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Solomon Islands and Timor-Leste that contain at least 500 species of reef-building corals in each ecoregion...
which is world-renowned for its coastal and marine biodiversity, which includes 70 genera of corals and about 2,500 fish species, about 70 percent of all fish species known to the western Indo-Pacific. The Wildlife Conservation Society
Wildlife Conservation Society
The Wildlife Conservation Society based at the Bronx Zoo was founded in 1895 as the New York Zoological Society and currently manages some of wild places around the world, with over 500 field conservation projects in 60 countries, and 200 scientists on staff...
is working with the Department of Marine Fisheries-DKP of the provincial government of North Maluku to monitor this environment.
Marine conservation and tourism
Halmahera's marine biodiversity and rich marine resources are receiving the needed marine conservation priority attention. The objective of this attention is to combine it with development of other economic sectors such as fisheries, marine tourism, oil and gas, and achieve a sustainable economic development of the marine resources and conserve its marine diversity value. To take appropriate decisions in the matter, the Nature Conservancy, WWF-Indonesia and other partners have initiated studies for a preliminary assessment on the prospects for "marine conservation and tourism in the Halmahera area". The surveys also cover study of the ecological link between Halmahera and the Bird's Head Seascape to the east and the Sulu-Sulawesi Seascape on the west.
Administrative divisions
The regency is divided into 22 districts (kecamantan) and contains 260 villages. The districts are as follows:- Galela
- Galela Barat
- Galela Selatan
- Galela Utara
- Kao
- Kao Barat
- Kao Teluk
- Kao Utara
- Loloda Kepulauan
- Loloda Utara
- Malifut
- Morotai Jaya
- Morotai Selatan
- Morotai Selatan Barat
- Morotai Timur
- Morotai Utara
- Tobelo
- Tobelo Barat
- Tobelo Selatan
- Tobelo Tengah
- Tobelo Timur
- Tobelo Utara
Demographics
Java
Java is an island of Indonesia. With a population of 135 million , it is the world's most populous island, and one of the most densely populated regions in the world. It is home to 60% of Indonesia's population. The Indonesian capital city, Jakarta, is in west Java...
, Sulawesi
Sulawesi
Sulawesi is one of the four larger Sunda Islands of Indonesia and is situated between Borneo and the Maluku Islands. In Indonesia, only Sumatra, Borneo, and Papua are larger in territory, and only Java and Sumatra have larger Indonesian populations.- Etymology :The Portuguese were the first to...
and other parts of North Maluku, especially Makian Island. Apart from the Indonesian language, natives have their own languages and one such language is Tabelo spoken by about 15,000 people in the island of Halhamera.
Economy
Coconut
The coconut palm, Cocos nucifera, is a member of the family Arecaceae . It is the only accepted species in the genus Cocos. The term coconut can refer to the entire coconut palm, the seed, or the fruit, which is not a botanical nut. The spelling cocoanut is an old-fashioned form of the word...
and clove
Clove
Cloves are the aromatic dried flower buds of a tree in the family Myrtaceae. Cloves are native to the Maluku islands in Indonesia and used as a spice in cuisines all over the world...
. In 2004, coconut production amounted to 55435 hectares (136,982.7 acre) and 66.199 thousand tonnes and cloves 3,175.5 hectares and 320.71 tonnes. Palm plantation area in 2002 amounted to 47900 hectares (118,363.4 acre) with a production of 68.5 thousand tonnes. Sub Tobelo, South Tobelo and Galela are the highest oil producing areas and contain several oil terminals. Aside from those mentioned above, the main crops grown are banana
Banana
Banana is the common name for herbaceous plants of the genus Musa and for the fruit they produce. Bananas come in a variety of sizes and colors when ripe, including yellow, purple, and red....
, rice
Rice
Rice is the seed of the monocot plants Oryza sativa or Oryza glaberrima . As a cereal grain, it is the most important staple food for a large part of the world's human population, especially in East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, the Middle East, and the West Indies...
, corn
Corn
Corn is the name used in the United States, Canada, and Australia for the grain maize.In much of the English-speaking world, the term "corn" is a generic term for cereal crops, such as* Barley* Oats* Wheat* Rye- Places :...
, peanut
Peanut
The peanut, or groundnut , is a species in the legume or "bean" family , so it is not a nut. The peanut was probably first cultivated in the valleys of Peru. It is an annual herbaceous plant growing tall...
s, soybean
Soybean
The soybean or soya bean is a species of legume native to East Asia, widely grown for its edible bean which has numerous uses...
s, cassava
Cassava
Cassava , also called yuca or manioc, a woody shrub of the Euphorbiaceae native to South America, is extensively cultivated as an annual crop in tropical and subtropical regions for its edible starchy tuberous root, a major source of carbohydrates...
, maize
Maize
Maize known in many English-speaking countries as corn or mielie/mealie, is a grain domesticated by indigenous peoples in Mesoamerica in prehistoric times. The leafy stalk produces ears which contain seeds called kernels. Though technically a grain, maize kernels are used in cooking as a vegetable...
, coffee
Coffee
Coffee is a brewed beverage with a dark,init brooo acidic flavor prepared from the roasted seeds of the coffee plant, colloquially called coffee beans. The beans are found in coffee cherries, which grow on trees cultivated in over 70 countries, primarily in equatorial Latin America, Southeast Asia,...
, cocoa, nutmeg
Nutmeg
The nutmeg tree is any of several species of trees in genus Myristica. The most important commercial species is Myristica fragrans, an evergreen tree indigenous to the Banda Islands in the Moluccas of Indonesia...
and some types of fruits such as orange
Orange (fruit)
An orange—specifically, the sweet orange—is the citrus Citrus × sinensis and its fruit. It is the most commonly grown tree fruit in the world....
s, mango
Mango
The mango is a fleshy stone fruit belonging to the genus Mangifera, consisting of numerous tropical fruiting trees in the flowering plant family Anacardiaceae. The mango is native to India from where it spread all over the world. It is also the most cultivated fruit of the tropical world. While...
and durian
Durian
The durian is the fruit of several tree species belonging to the genus Durio and the Malvaceae family . Widely known and revered in southeast Asia as the "king of fruits", the durian is distinctive for its large size, unique odour, and formidable thorn-covered husk...
. Some types of livestock have been developed, including goat, cattle, chickens, hens, and pigs. The North Halmahera Regency has some 536000 hectares (1,324,483.7 acre) of forest, 145500 hectares (359,538 acre) of which is protected and 26250 hectares (64,865.1 acre) of which is under production. Mining reserves have been identified in the area, namely gold
Gold
Gold is a chemical element with the symbol Au and an atomic number of 79. Gold is a dense, soft, shiny, malleable and ductile metal. Pure gold has a bright yellow color and luster traditionally considered attractive, which it maintains without oxidizing in air or water. Chemically, gold is a...
, natural gas
Natural gas
Natural gas is a naturally occurring gas mixture consisting primarily of methane, typically with 0–20% higher hydrocarbons . It is found associated with other hydrocarbon fuel, in coal beds, as methane clathrates, and is an important fuel source and a major feedstock for fertilizers.Most natural...
and nickel ore. There are gold mines in Kao District and Loloda District (Dotia village). Geothermal energy resources are also available in the District of Galela (Mamuya village). On Doi Island, some reserves of iron and copper have been found.
Based on research results of the Marine Fisheries Research Institute (1983), the potential of fish resources (standing stock) found in North Halmahera waters is estimated at 644,382.48 tonnes. Fishing is important to the economic activity of the region. Most people in North Halmahera Regency inhabit coastal areas and depend upon these marine ecosystems as a source of social economic life. Until the year 2002, the contribution of capture fisheries production amounted to 98,782.21 tonnes or roughly 65% of the total overall production. In addition to the fish resources, several types of other resources have high economic value and have been exploited by the fishing communities in the coastal areas and small islands, such as crustacea, Egg Sea cucumbers (Holothuroidea), mollusc, and seaweed
Seaweed
Seaweed is a loose, colloquial term encompassing macroscopic, multicellular, benthic marine algae. The term includes some members of the red, brown and green algae...
. The fishing equipment used by most fishermen in the region of North Halmahera is traditional, such as nets. The extent of coastal and marine areas with a high water quality allows for the development of marine aquaculture
Aquaculture
Aquaculture, also known as aquafarming, is the farming of aquatic organisms such as fish, crustaceans, molluscs and aquatic plants. Aquaculture involves cultivating freshwater and saltwater populations under controlled conditions, and can be contrasted with commercial fishing, which is the...
, especially Grouper
Grouper
Groupers are fish of any of a number of genera in the subfamily Epinephelinae of the family Serranidae, in the order Perciformes.Not all serranids are called groupers; the family also includes the sea basses. The common name grouper is usually given to fish in one of two large genera: Epinephelus...
, lobster
Lobster
Clawed lobsters comprise a family of large marine crustaceans. Highly prized as seafood, lobsters are economically important, and are often one of the most profitable commodities in coastal areas they populate.Though several groups of crustaceans are known as lobsters, the clawed lobsters are most...
, seaweed and pearl
Pearl
A pearl is a hard object produced within the soft tissue of a living shelled mollusk. Just like the shell of a mollusk, a pearl is made up of calcium carbonate in minute crystalline form, which has been deposited in concentric layers. The ideal pearl is perfectly round and smooth, but many other...
s. Until now, optimisation and productivity of aquaculture in North Halamahera has been low. Until the year 2002 the total area of cultivation of marine, brackish and pond reached 128,110 ha, producing just 46.550 tonnes, or 0.03% of the total volume of production.
There is an availability of facilities and infrastructure to support the economy such as ports, banks, markets and primary business activity which is predominantly concentrated in the capital of Tobelo. GDP in 2005 amounted to 373,693.21 million rupee. In the year 2003, the economy of North Halmahera increased 2.93%, 3.33% in 2004, and 3.54% in 2005.
Culture
One festival of note is the annual North Halmahera Cultural Festival, when the people wear full traditional ceremonial dress.Traditional weddings in the capital of Tobelo are also said to be among the most colourful in Maluku and the Christians follow traditions during their wedding ceremonies, with traditional music and dance. A wedding is typically accompanied by traditional Tobelorese music, played with gongs and drums and a Cakele dance is usually performed in front of the bride as she approaches the groom. Around the time of New Year, Tobelo attracts a number of Yangere groups (such as the Orang Hutan band etc.) from all over North Halmahera who perform music and dances.
The Tobelo language
Tobelo language
Tobelo is a West Papuan language spoken on the eastern Indonesian island of Halmahera and on parts of several neighboring islands. The Tobelo-speaking heartland is in the district of Tobelo, located on the western shore of Kao Bay...
is spoken across North Halmahera by approximately 15,000 people.
Religion
The main religions in North Halmahera are primarily Christianity and Islam. Muslims and Christians had lived here from the 16th century. The two communities lived peacefully following the cultural tradition of the Hibua Lamo (a pact between Muslims and Christians to live together without aggressive designs against each other and cooperating on all matters of mutual interest). The capital Tobelo of North Halmahera, in particular is a strong Christian community and was visited by missionaries in the late 19th century and early 20th century also. They left a long-standing legacy and a Protestant church was built in the capital. Tobelo, a predominantly Christian community celebrate Christmas colourfully with street arches and buntings made with bamboo poles arching over the side of the roads hung with lights and multi-coloured flags. At EasterEaster
Easter is the central feast in the Christian liturgical year. According to the Canonical gospels, Jesus rose from the dead on the third day after his crucifixion. His resurrection is celebrated on Easter Day or Easter Sunday...
, local church congregations hold a competition to see who can create the best Easter garden.
Riots
In the beginning of 1999, there were ethnic clashes between Muslims and Christians in Ambon city
Ambon City
Ambon is the main city and seaport of Ambon Island, and is the capital of Maluku province of Indonesia. It is one of the largest cities in eastern Indonesia....
, particularly in North Maluka where the Muslim community of the Makina
Makina
Mákina, originated in Spain, similar in sound to UK Hardcore, but with certain elements of Bouncy Techno and Trance music among other differences...
community attacked Christians. A pastor was killed and churches were destroyed. This disturbed the peace that existed between the two communities in Galelo and Tabelo, both Christian majority towns. The issue got aggravated in spite of efforts by both groups for reconciliation. Several thousand Christians fled from Central Halmahera and took shelter in Tobelo and it turned into a refugee camp. However, outside forces precipitated the issue and there was a gradual built up of tension in the region, which ultimately resulted in the worst rioting in Tabelo on 24 December 1999, which spread to other towns as well. Remnants of this rioting are still seen and an atmosphere of mistrust prevails. Galileo subdistrict is another town where remnants of strife (burnt out churches and mosques) between religious groups are still seen with military checkposts.
Islands and beaches
North Halmahera Regency has a large number of beaches, islands, parks, lakes, historic monuments, volcano and springs and so forth. Some of the important ones are the following:Islands
Hibubualamo KakaraKakara Island with its the oldest Hibualamo near Tobelo is well known for the Tobelorese culture. Those interested in The Hibualamo or village hall, built in traditional style has historical Tobelorese artifacts.
Rorangane island
Rorangane island, uninhabited island a short distance from Tobelo harbour; has a white sand beach. The sea waters have coral reefs at a depth of 10–30 metres. It is a good location for diving and swimming.
Somola bay
Somola bay is a group of small rich in mangrove forest that grow out of the rocks. Its waters are clear, good for canoeing and also fishing migrate. Pune village in Galela district is the nearest to this bay.
Sumsum island
General of the Army (United States)
General of the Army is a five-star general officer and is the second highest possible rank in the United States Army. A special rank of General of the Armies, which ranks above General of the Army, does exist but has only been conferred twice in the history of the Army...
Douglas MacArthur
Douglas MacArthur
General of the Army Douglas MacArthur was an American general and field marshal of the Philippine Army. He was a Chief of Staff of the United States Army during the 1930s and played a prominent role in the Pacific theater during World War II. He received the Medal of Honor for his service in the...
, commander of the Allied Forces in the Asia Pacific region during World War II stayed here and prepared for attack on the Philippines. War relics in the form of bunker that served as headquarters and the landing site of amphibious ships can be seen here.
Dodola island
Dodola island, close to Morotai Island, has a swathe of white sand beaches that links to Dodola Besar and Dodola Kecil islands. Set is beautiful surroundings its waters are clear and ideal for swimming, diving and snorkelling.
Beaches
Dorume beachDorume beach records huge waves in December, which is good for surfing. The fine sands in the beach shine in the sun due its metallic contents. Tobotobo coral gardens of Loloda Islands district, approached from Dorume beach, have reefs which are good for diving and snorkelling.
Posiposi beach
Posiposi beach, though secluded, has lovely vistas in palm fringed crescent setting. Its attractions are: large waves, reefs and the Mandi waterfall.
Gamlaha beach
Gamlaha beach, a pristine beach, has white sands and calm waters. Coconut palms provide shades under which the Bobale island could be viewed.
Sosol beach
Sosol beach is the scene of Tosimaru Ship Wreck, a WW II Japanese cargo ship. It is in Malifut district. It has 1 km stretch of black sand beach and has calm waters. However, it becomes very wide during low tide.
Pitu beach
Pitu beach has 50 metres (164 ft) width during low tide in its length of 530 metres (1,738.8 ft). It has black sand on its beach where beach volleyball or soccer games are played. It is a safe place to swim even for children. It has a rich marine life.
Bobale beach
Bobale beach in the Bobale island is approached from the coast of Daru village in Kao
Kao, Indonesia
Kao is a small coastal town on the eastern Indonesian island of Halmahera. It is located in the North Halmahera Regency, part of the province of North Maluku. It is connected by a coastal road to Tobelo, about an hour's drive to the north. Kao cemetery is located to the northwest of the town....
district. It has white sand on its beaches and also coral gardens, and the marine life is found in depths of 2–10 m (6.6–32.8 ft) and is also good for diving.
Kupakupa beach
Kupakupa beach has large banyan trees on its shores that provide sheltered location in the bay and keeps the waters quiet. Watersports like swimming, canoeing and snorkelling are popular here. The coral reefs in the northern section of the beach are considered one of the best in the coast of North Halmahera.
Kumo beach
Kumo beach on the Kumo island is very near to Tobelo and accessed by motorized canoe. It is set with scenic surroundings and is popular place for swimming. It gives a lovely view of the Tobelo town.
Luari beach
Luari beach is set in the ethnic Galelarese village of Luari, to the north of Tobelo on the Pacific Ocean. Its calm waters provide for good swimming, canoeing and snorkelling. Sunset views from the cape to its north, from Mount Tarakani and the coast of Galela are an attraction to visitors.
Batu Kopi
Batu Kopi means coffee
Coffee
Coffee is a brewed beverage with a dark,init brooo acidic flavor prepared from the roasted seeds of the coffee plant, colloquially called coffee beans. The beans are found in coffee cherries, which grow on trees cultivated in over 70 countries, primarily in equatorial Latin America, Southeast Asia,...
rock. It is located at Posiposi-Rao beach in the South-West Morotai district. Its name is derived from a local tale that professes aroma of coffee emerging from this rock. This aroma is noted during late afternoons.
Lakes and parks
Telaga Paca lakeTelaga Paca is a small crater lake close to Tobelo town to the south – a few km off the main road. The lake is set in a backdrop of thickly forested hills. There is also a small village by the same name Talaga Paca near the lake, which has a lookout area erected over stilts in the water to view the lake. A canoe could be hired to paddle in the lake. It is the source for drinking water to the village. Villagers do fishing in the lake.
Duma-galela lake
Duma-galela lake is the largest freshwater lake of the Halmahera island. The lake is used for swimming, fishing and canoeing. Bamboo rafts are also used on the lake. Two smaller crater lakes namely Makete and Ngidiho are also in its vicinity.
Parks
Tobotobo marine parkTobotobo marine park in Tobotobo village in he Loloda Islands district has coral reef which is good for diving and snorkelling. Fruit-bats abound here roosting in the mangroves. A unique sight seen here is of the wild green and white pigeons bathing in the sea near the village.
Volcano
Dukono volcanoMount Dukono is a 185 metres (607 ft) high volcano that is one of three most active volcanoes not only in Halmahera island but also in Indonesia. The volcanic mountain is accessed from the Mamuya village. There is a volcanology information centre which provides latest information on the current status of the volcano.
Other sights
Mamuya hot springMamuya hot spring in Mamuya village in Galelo is a hot spring emanating from a volcano by the same name. Spring water is said to have curing qualities for skin problems and hence is a popular attraction among the local people. It is only 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) from Tobelo town.
Wangongira rice field
Wangongira rice fields are known for the special variety of rice grown along the swift flowing river called Molulu. It is located in Wangongira village in West Tobelo.
World War II Japanese tunnels
World War II Japanese tunnels, located below the road, are in the Samuda and Duma villages of West Galela District. The tunnels were used by the Japanese army during WW II. The one in Samuda Tunnel is 20 meters with many rooms and halls.
