Belu Regency
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Belu Regency
Kabupaten Belu Rai Belu | |
|---|---|
 Coat of arms | |
| Nickname: Belu | |
 Location within East Nusa Tenggara | |
  Belu Regency  Belu Regency Belu Regency (Lesser Sunda Islands)  Belu Regency Belu Regency (Indonesia) | |
| Coordinates: 9°20′45″S 124°57′2″E / 9.34583°S 124.95056°E | |
| Country |  Indonesia |
| Region | Lesser Sunda Islands |
| Province |  East Nusa Tenggara |
| Settled | 20 December 1956 |
| Capital | Atambua |
| Government | |
| • Regent | Willybrodus Lay |
| • Vice Regent | Vicente Hornai Gonsalves |
| Area | |
• Total | 1,284.94 km2 (496.12 sq mi) |
| Elevation | 375 m (1,230 ft) |
| Population (mid 2024 estimate)[1] | |
• Total | 232,788 |
| • Density | 181.166/km2 (469.219/sq mi) |
| Time zone | UTC+8 (ICST) |
| Postcodes | 856xx, 857xx |
| Area code | (+62) 389 |
| Religion | Christianity 95.45% — Catholic 88.39% — Protestant 7.10% Islam 4.30% Hindu 0.19% Buddhism 0.02%[2] |
| Website | belukab |
Belu Regency is a regency in East Nusa Tenggara province of Indonesia. Situated on the north side of Timor island, it originally stretched to the south coast, but in December 2012 its southern half was detached to form the new Malaka Regency. It now adjoins the North Central Timor Regency to the west, the new Malaka Regency to the south, and the separate nation of East Timor to the east, while to the north lies the Sawu Sea. Established on 20 December 1958,[3] Belu Regency has its seat (capital) in the large town of Atambua, which lies inland from the coastal port of Atapupu (in Kakuluk Mesak District).
"Belu" means "friend" in the indigenous language of Tetum.
Economy
The economy of Belu Regency is primarily based on agriculture, with the cultivation of crops such as maize, rice, and various fruits being central to local livelihoods. Additionally, livestock farming, particularly cattle and goats, plays a significant role in the region's economy. The coastal areas also offer opportunities for fishing and marine-based activities. The regency is known for its traditional weaving, namely Tais Belu, which produces intricate textiles that are culturally significant to the local communities.
Demographics and culture
Belu Regency is home to a diverse population with a mix of ethnic groups, including those speaking the Belunese dialect of the Tetum language and other Austronesian-speaking peoples. The local culture is deeply rooted in traditional practices, with numerous festivals and ceremonies reflecting the rich heritage of the area. Traditional music, dance, and weaving are important aspects of Belu's cultural identity. The regency is also known for its unique traditional houses and community-based celebrations.
Tourism
Tourism in Belu Regency is growing, with visitors attracted to its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical sites. Key attractions include the scenic landscapes, traditional villages, and cultural festivals. Efforts are being made to develop infrastructure and services to enhance the tourism experience while preserving the regency's cultural and environmental assets.
Transportation
The regency is accessible by land and sea. Major roads connect Belu Regency with other parts of West Timor and neighboring Timor-Leste. The main entry point by air or land is the town of Atambua, which is served by a regional airport and has connections to other major towns and cities in the region, while the port of Atapupu is the entry port for sea travel.
