PRIME NEWS POST
JAKARTA — Molosing Island, located administratively in Motabang Village, Lolak District, North Bolaang Mongondow Regency, North Sulawesi, is a destination that preserves both natural wealth and high-value historical heritage.
The island is renowned for its distinctive natural landscapes. In the eastern part, lush mangrove forests thrive, while volcanic rocks are visible at various points, harmoniously blending with coastal vegetation such as Terminalia catappa, Calophyllum inophyllum, and Morinda citrifolia. The hilly areas are covered in tropical rainforests dominated by Vitex cofassus (Kayu Kambing), coconut trees, and mango trees, adorned with diverse flora including lianas, orchids, and ferns.
Beyond its scenic beauty, Molosing Island holds significant ecological importance. It serves as a nesting ground for the Maleo bird, a unique endemic species of Sulawesi that incubates its eggs in sand. Additionally, during the full moon phase, the island’s white sandy beaches become a natural attraction for observing sea turtles laying eggs, making it a promising destination for conservation-based tourism.
Beneath its natural charm, Molosing Island also preserves significant historical records. Iftiqar S.A. Ponto, the manager of Molosing Beach Resort, revealed that this area was once the witness to important events in the past.
History recounts that Andi Latae, a nobleman from Wajo, South Sulawesi, along with his followers, was involved in battles against pirates from Loloda and Mangindanao in the waters surrounding Molosing Island. During that era, pirate groups frequently raided the Bolaang Mongondow region.
Initially, Andi Latae only intended to make a temporary stop to repair his ship, which had been damaged in battle. However, he eventually settled there after marrying Princess Hotimimbang, daughter of the King of Bolaang Mongondow, Cornelis Manoppo. From this union descended generations who later became pivotal figures in the kingdom’s history, including King Abraham Sugeha.
Iftiqar S.A. Ponto expressed his hope that Molosing Island will not only be recognized for its natural beauty but also as a site of historical and civilizational value worthy of preservation and introduction to future generations.
The presentation regarding Molosing Island was delivered during the Communication Forum of the Indonesian Traditional Councils (MAI), attended by Kings, Sultans, Datuks, Queens, and traditional leaders from across the archipelago. The forum once again served as a strategic platform for reflecting on national values rooted in history and local wisdom.
On this occasion, His Highness Iftiqar S.A. Ponto stated that uncovering the history of Molosing Island is part of an effort to continue and enrich the intellectual legacy of ancestors, while strengthening national identity through cultural and historical approaches.
#Reported from various media sources //photo from Google documents // contribution by Prime News Post international online media // Media Center of Majelis Adat Indonesia (MAI)
