Salayar

Salayar, also spelled Selayar, refers to the Selayar Islands, an archipelago and regency in South Sulawesi, Indonesia. The group lies off the southeastern coast of Sulawesi, in the Flores Sea. The regency’s administrative center is Benteng, located on Selayar Island, the largest island in the group.

Geography and environment: The archipelago comprises numerous islands and islets, with the main island of Selayar hosting most settlements. The landscape includes coastal mangroves, hills, and extensive coral reefs. The area has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, supporting a variety of marine and terrestrial ecosystems.

Population and culture: The islands are inhabited by the Selayar people, along with settlers from other Sulawesi groups such as Bugis and Makassar. The Selayar language is spoken alongside Indonesian, which is widely used in education and administration. Islam is the predominant religion, with communities that maintain traditional customs and cultural expressions, including music and crafts.

Economy and transport: The economy centers on fishing and agriculture, with crops such as coconuts and other local staples. In recent years, tourism has grown, especially for diving and snorkeling opportunities around coral reefs and the Bonerate Atoll, a notable feature of the archipelago. Transport is mainly by sea, with ferries and regional vessels connecting Benteng and other settlements to Makassar and other ports. Air service exists in the broader region but is limited for the islands themselves.

Notable features: The Bonerate Atoll is a prominent geographic feature within the Salayar Islands, recognized for its large coral reefs and biodiversity, contributing to both the natural value and the growing ecotourism of the area.