Morotai Island

Morotai Island Regency is an island formation in North Maluku consisting of one main island and 33 smaller islands throughout the region. The territory spreads across a substantial area with an extensive coastline along its perimeter.

The island served as a key Allied military base from 1944 to 1945, hosting operations against Japanese forces in neighboring regions. Its location made it valuable for coordinating actions across the wider theater.

The island is home to people from the Tobelo and Galela groups, alongside residents who have moved here from other parts of Indonesia. Both Islam and Christianity are practiced throughout the communities here.

Visitors can reach the island by boat from other locations in the region, with several routes available depending on origin. Getting around once there requires arranging local transport on the main island and smaller islands.

The area was considered as a potential spaceport site due to its equatorial location and existing infrastructure. The flat terrain and remote setting make it attractive for such ambitious projects.

Location: North Maluku

Capital city: South Morotai

Elevation above the sea: 678 m

GPS coordinates: 2.30000,128.41700

Latest update: December 23, 2025 21:07