South Buton

South Buton is an administrative region in Southeast Sulawesi spanning seven districts and encompassing several islands including Kadatua, Siompu, and Batu Abas in the Flores Sea. The town of Batauga serves as the administrative center and connects the various districts through a network of local roads.

The region became an independent administrative unit in 2014 when it separated from the original Buton Regency. This separation allowed the southern areas to have their own local governance and development direction.

The communities in South Buton maintain traditional farming and fishing ways of life, with different ethnic groups speaking their own languages like Wolio and Cia-Cia alongside one another. This mix shapes daily life and the local character of the region.

The region is best reached by small boat from the main island due to its scattered islands and coastal areas. Visitors should expect basic conditions and plan visits when weather is stable for safer travel.

The region contains substantial deposits of natural asphalt used for road construction. This local material offers an alternative to petroleum-based products and shapes the economic role of the area.

Location: Southeast Sulawesi

Founders: Government of Indonesia

Capital city: Batauga

Elevation above the sea: 191 m

Shares border with: Buton, Bau Bau

Website: http://butonselatankab.go.id

GPS coordinates: -5.56667,122.70000

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:40