Simeulue, Indonesian regency in Aceh province.
Simeulue is a regency occupying an island in the Indian Ocean, situated roughly 150 kilometers from Sumatra's western coast. The territory consists of ten administrative districts, with Sinabang serving as the main government center.
The regency formed in 1999 after separating from West Aceh to pursue its own development priorities. This division represented a significant step toward local autonomy for the island community.
The people here speak three distinct languages—Devayan, Sigulai, and Leukon—that differ from those used on nearby Sumatra. This linguistic diversity shapes daily life and reflects the community's separate identity.
The best access is by boat from Sumatra's coast or by local flight to Sinabang. Information about lodging and local services is available at the administrative center.
The local smong tradition contains inherited knowledge about evacuation during earthquakes, which saved many lives in 2004. This time-tested system shows how communities survive through passed-down experience.
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