Yapen Islands Regency

The Yapen Islands Regency spans 2,432 square kilometers across multiple islands in Cenderawasih Bay, containing both coastal territories and elevated regions reaching 705 meters.

Spanish navigator Alvaro de Saavedra made the first European documentation of Yapen on June 24, 1528, during his return journey from Tidore to New Spain.

The indigenous communities of Yapen maintain their traditions through local ceremonies, with distinct groups including Yobi, Randowaya, Serui, and Ansus populations.

Transportation between islands relies on local boat networks, connecting the sixteen districts and 165 administrative villages that make up the regency.

A magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck the region in 1979, causing widespread destruction and generating a tsunami that resulted in 115 fatalities.

Location: Papua

Capital city: Serui Kota

Elevation above the sea: 705 m

GPS coordinates: -1.78773,136.27716

Latest update: March 3, 2025 05:41