Happy TravellerWelcome to Manggar, a historic town located in the Bangka-Belitung province of Indonesia. Once a thriving tin mining town in the 19th century, Manggar is now a bustling port on the east coast of Belitung Island and the seat of the East Belitung Regency. With a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a vibrant local culture, Manggar has something to offer to every traveler.
History:
Manggar has a rich history that dates back to the 1860s when Dutch prospectors of the Billiton Maatschappij explored the area and established the mining district of Burung Mandi Lenggang. In 1863, a tin mine was established on the right banks of the Manggar River, and the district was renamed to Manggar district in 1866. After Indonesian independence, the Manggar District was one of the four districts comprising the island of Belitung by the 1980s. Manggar became the seat of the East Belitung Regency after its formation in 2003.
Demographics:
According to the 2020 Census, Manggar has a population of 39,135 people, making it the most populous district in East Belitung and the second most populated in the island behind Tanjung Pandan. The sex ratio is 104.5 males to 100 females.
Administration:
The district of Manggar is further subdivided into nine villages, out of which three – Kelubi, Buku Limau and Bentaian Jaya – are classified by Statistics Indonesia as rural (desa), while the rest are urban (kelurahan). For elections of East Belitungs municipal council, Manggar shares an electoral district with the neighboring district of Simpang Renggiang.
Notable people:
Manggar is the birthplace of two notable people – Yusril Ihza Mahendra, a lawyer and national politician, and Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, the former governor of Jakarta (2014-2017).
Attractions:
Manggar offers a range of attractions and activities for tourists. One of the most popular attractions is the Manggar Beach, which boasts pristine white sand and crystal clear water. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Another must-see attraction is the Tin Museum, which showcases the history of tin mining in the area and features artifacts and exhibits related to the industry. For nature lovers, the Bukit Batu Nature Reserve is a must-visit destination. The reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna and offers opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting.
Food:
Manggar is famous for its local cuisine, which features a blend of Indonesian, Chinese, and Malay influences. One of the most popular dishes is the otak-otak, a spicy fish cake that is grilled or steamed in banana leaves. Other must-try dishes include the nasi lemak, a coconut rice dish served with various side dishes, and the sate belitung, a skewered meat dish served with a sweet and spicy peanut sauce.
In conclusion, Manggar is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Manggar has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and head to Manggar to experience the best of Indonesia!
