Introduction to the Moluccas

By: Tegar Putuhena

Ever since Indonesian independence in 1945, the Moluccas Islands (or Maluku in Indonesian) -one of the oldest provinces in Indonesia-, formed a single unified province. However, in 1999 it was split into two provinces: North Maluku and Maluku. North Maluku is predominantly Muslim and its capital is Ternate while Maluku has a larger Christian population and its capital is Ambon.

Ternate: Snacks, Drinks and Karaoke

By: Ed Caffin

Ternate, the small but busy island-capital of the North Moluccas, is not a place many travelers linger around for too long. Its remote location and conservative character have built its reputation as a dull city. I explored the island for a few days, and although it might indeed not fit all travelers, I soon discovered that there are a lot of nice things to see and do in Ternate. And, by no means a rock ‘n roll party-town, nightlife can be fun too. There are more than a dozen places to have good food ánd a good time - at least, if you like Karaoke.

Around noon, men with praying-carpets over their shoulders walk toward the new big mosque in the centre of town that watches over the Sultan’s city. Muezzins on the dozen or so minarets nearby take turns in singing,― some beautifully and some less so – their fellow believers to prayer. For those that might have missed it all, signs on major roads make sure all muslims do their duty: ‘Go and pray! Don’t be too late…’