This is an educational resource based on the Wikipedia article on Makassar. Read the full source article here. (opens in new tab)

Makassar: Crossroads of the East

A comprehensive exploration of Indonesia's vital gateway city, delving into its historical significance, cultural tapestry, and economic dynamism.

Discover Makassar 👇 Explore its Past

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!


When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Overview

Strategic Location

Makassar, formerly known as Ujung Pandang, is the capital of the Indonesian province of South Sulawesi. It stands as the largest city in Eastern Indonesia and ranks as the nation's fifth-largest urban center. Strategically situated on the southwest coast of Sulawesi, it overlooks the vital Makassar Strait.

Maritime Heritage

Historically, Makassar has been a crucial trading port, serving as the center for the Gowa Sultanate and a significant base for Portuguese traders before its eventual control by the Dutch East India Company. Its maritime legacy continues, being a key port for traditional pinisi sailing ships.

Administrative Hub

As the provincial capital, Makassar is a major administrative and economic center. Its metropolitan area, known as Mamminasata, encompasses surrounding districts, reflecting its significant regional influence and population density.

Historical Trajectory

Sultanate Era

Makassar's prominence began to rise in the 16th century under the Gowa and Tallo sultanates. The city developed into a vital international trading port, resisting Dutch attempts to establish a spice trade monopoly and maintaining a policy of open trade. The acceptance of Islam in 1603, marked by the first official Friday Prayer on November 9, 1607, is celebrated as the city's anniversary.

Colonial Period

Following internal conflicts and Bugis rebellions, the Dutch East India Company (VOC) conquered Makassar in 1667-1669, rebuilding the city around Fort Rotterdam. Despite Dutch control, Makassar remained a crucial collecting point for Indonesian produce and maintained its role as a vital port. It also served as the capital of the State of East Indonesia during the early years of Indonesian independence.

Australian Connections

From around 1700, Makassar was a center for the trepang (sea cucumber) trade, which led to significant contact between Makassan sailors and Indigenous Australian peoples of northern Australia, predating European settlement. This historical maritime connection highlights Makassar's extensive reach.

Geography & Climate

Location and Area

Makassar City covers 175.77 km2 (67.87 sq mi) on the southwest coast of Sulawesi. It lies on low-lying land, with an elevation ranging from 0 to 25 meters above sea level. The city is bordered by several regencies and the Makassar Strait, contributing to its role as a coastal hub.

Location within South Sulawesi
Location within South Sulawesi
Interactive map of Makassar
Interactive map

Tropical Climate

Makassar experiences a tropical monsoon climate (Köppen: Am), characterized by consistent temperatures year-round, averaging around 27.5°C (81.5°F). Rainfall varies significantly, with a distinct wet season from December to February, receiving substantial precipitation, while August is notably drier.

Makassar Climate Normals (1991–2020)
Month JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecYear
Mean Max °C (°F) 31.0
(87.8)
31.2
(88.2)
31.7
(89.1)
32.1
(89.8)
32.4
(90.3)
32.0
(89.6)
31.7
(89.1)
32.0
(89.6)
32.7
(90.9)
33.1
(91.6)
32.7
(90.9)
31.3
(88.3)
32.0
(89.6)
Daily Mean °C (°F) 27.7
(81.9)
27.7
(81.9)
27.9
(82.2)
28.2
(82.8)
28.4
(83.1)
27.9
(82.2)
27.6
(81.7)
27.8
(82.0)
28.2
(82.8)
28.7
(83.7)
28.5
(83.3)
27.9
(82.2)
28.0
(82.4)
Mean Min °C (°F) 25.0
(77.0)
24.9
(76.8)
25.1
(77.2)
25.3
(77.5)
25.4
(77.7)
24.8
(76.6)
24.1
(75.4)
24.0
(75.2)
24.3
(75.7)
24.9
(76.8)
25.4
(77.7)
25.2
(77.4)
24.9
(76.8)
Avg. Rainfall mm (in) 734
(28.9)
563
(22.2)
391
(15.4)
235
(9.3)
97
(3.8)
66
(2.6)
48
(1.9)
15
(0.6)
32
(1.3)
83
(3.3)
273
(10.7)
549
(21.6)
3,086
(121.6)
Avg. Rainy Days 272623188641271724163
Avg. Humidity (%) 86868583817974686671808579
Avg. Sunshine Hours 5.76.36.97.68.48.58.89.610.19.47.96.48.0
Sources: World Meteorological Organization, Weatherbase, Weather2travel, Climate-Data.org

Governance Structure

City Administration

Makassar operates under a mayor-council system. The executive leadership is vested in a mayor and vice mayor, elected directly for five-year terms. A city legislative assembly, also elected for five-year terms, provides oversight and legislative functions.

Administrative Divisions

The city is administratively divided into 15 districts (kecamatan), which are further subdivided into 153 urban villages (kelurahan). This structure facilitates local governance and service delivery across the urban landscape.

Makassar Administrative Divisions
Code District Name Area km2 Pop. 2010 Pop. 2020 Pop. Est. 2023 Villages
73.71.01Mariso1.8256,31357,42658,7309
73.71.02Mamajang2.2559,13356,04958,29313
73.71.10Tamalate20.21169,890180,824188,43211
73.71.13Rappocini9.23151,357144,587150,61311
73.71.03Makassar2.5281,90182,06782,23714
73.71.04Ujung Pandang2.6327,20624,52624,85110
73.71.05Wajo1.9929,67029,97229,5038
73.71.06Bontoala2.1054,26854,99655,20112
73.71.08Ujung Tanah4.4046,77135,78936,7459
73.71.15Sangkarrang Islands1.54(a)14,12514,9813
73.71.07Tallo5.83133,815144,977148,05515
73.71.09Panakkukang17.05141,524139,590144,20411
73.71.12Manggala24.14117,303146,724160,4669
73.71.11Biringkanaya48.22167,843209,048215,82011
73.71.14Tamalanrea31.84101,669103,770106,2628
Total175.771,338,6631,423,8771,474,393153

Note (a): 2010 population for Sangkarrang Islands District included in Ujung Tanah.

Economic Landscape

Port and Trade

Makassar serves as a primary port in Indonesia, facilitating significant domestic and international shipping. It is nationally recognized as a key stop for traditional pinisi wooden sailing ships, underscoring its enduring role in maritime trade.

Key Industries

Historically known for exporting Makassar oil (used in hair pomades) and fine ebony wood, the city's modern economy is heavily service-oriented. The service sector constitutes approximately 70% of economic activity, with significant contributions from restaurants, hotels, transportation, communication, and finance.

Industrial Base

Beyond services, industry plays a notable role, accounting for over 21% of the city's economic activity. The Makassar Industrial Estate (KIMA) spans 270.84 hectares, supporting manufacturing and production within the city's administrative boundaries.

Mobility and Connectivity

Urban Transit

Makassar's public transportation includes the distinctive pete-pete (minibuses), becak (pedicabs), and a city-run bus system. Ride-hailing services and taxis are also prevalent, ensuring diverse options for intra-city travel.

Regional Connectivity

The "Trans Mamminasata" bus rapid transit (BRT) system connects Makassar with neighboring areas like Maros, Takalar, and Gowa, enhancing regional mobility. While a proposed monorail project was abandoned due to feasibility concerns, the BRT remains a key public transport initiative.

Air and Sea Links

Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport, located in the adjacent Maros Regency, serves Makassar and the wider South Sulawesi province. The city's primary seaport, Soekarno-Hatta Sea Port, is undergoing expansion to accommodate increasing shipping demands.

Culinary Delights

Savory Specialties

Makassar is renowned for its distinctive cuisine. Coto Makassar, a rich stew made from offal and spices, and Konro, a flavorful rib dish, are iconic. Both are traditionally served with burasa or ketupat (rice cakes).

Unique Flavors

Ayam Goreng Sulawesi (Celebes Fried Chicken), marinated for extended periods, offers a unique taste. The city also boasts famous banana dishes: Pisang Epe (pressed, grilled banana with palm sugar sauce) and Pisang Ijo (green banana dessert), often enjoyed during Ramadan.

Academic Institutions

Higher Education

Makassar is a significant educational center in Eastern Indonesia, hosting several prominent universities. These include the State University of Makassar, Hasanuddin University (one of Indonesia's major public universities), and Alauddin Islamic State University.

Hasanuddin University rectorate campus
Hasanuddin University Rectorate

Global Connections

Consulates

Makassar hosts several foreign consulates, reflecting its international importance. Countries with consular representation include Australia, Germany, Japan, Czech Republic, Switzerland, and France, facilitating diplomatic and trade relations.

Sister Cities

The city maintains sister city relationships with several international locations, fostering cultural exchange and cooperation. These include Kuala Terengganu (Malaysia), Lismore (Australia), Peshawar (Pakistan), and Qingdao (China).

Notable Figures

Historical Personalities

Makassar's history is shaped by influential figures such as Karaeng Pattingalloang, a learned 17th-century ruler known for his intellectual pursuits, and Sultan Hasanuddin, who led the Gowa Sultanate during a period of significant resistance against Dutch influence. These individuals played pivotal roles in the city's development and its interactions with regional and global powers.

References

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio
Click here to open the "Makassar" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about makassar while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.
Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

References

References

  1.  Badan Pusat Statistik, Jakarta, 28 February 2024, Kota Makassar Dalam Angka 2024 (Katalog-BPS 1102001.7371)
  2.  Anthony Reid, Charting the Shape of Early Modern Southeast Asia, Singapore 1999, pp.113-19; Poelinggomang, 2002, pp.22-23
A full list of references for this article are available at the Makassar Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This content has been generated by an AI model and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is based on data sourced from Wikipedia and may not reflect the most current information or provide exhaustive detail. The AI does not possess real-world experience or the ability to conduct independent verification beyond the provided source material.

This is not professional advice. The information presented here should not be considered a substitute for expert consultation in fields such as history, urban planning, economics, or cultural studies. Always consult with qualified professionals and refer to official sources for critical decisions or detailed understanding.

The creators of this page are not liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided.