Kendari history

The history of Kendari, the capital of the Southeast Sulawesi province, is inextricably linked to its advantageous location on the bay, which determined its destiny as a vital maritime and trading hub in Indonesia. The city grew from a small port settlement, transforming into the region's key administrative and economic centre.

Although settlements in this territory have existed since ancient times, and historically it was the site of the capital of the Laiwoi Kingdom, the official founding date of Kendari is considered to be May 9, 1831. On this day, the Dutch explorer Vosmaer arrived in the bay to establish a trading post. The name "Kendari" itself is believed to originate from the word "kandai"—the name of a navigational tool used by local fishermen.

Several factors contributed to the city's rapid development. The protected bay served as an ideal harbour and a transit point on trade routes. Active trade was established here by settlers—the Bugis and Bajo tribes, renowned for their seafaring and commercial skills. A major milestone in the city's history was achieving the status of the capital of Southeast Sulawesi province in 1964, which gave a powerful impulse to its further growth.

Initially, Kendari's economy was based on fishing, agriculture, and maritime trade. The cultural landscape of the city was shaped by the influence of the indigenous Tolaki tribe, as well as settlers from the Muna, Buton, and Bugis peoples. Traditions still play a notable role in the lives of the citizens today, particularly the Tolaki philosophy of "KALO SARA," which calls for harmony between people, nature, and the divine. Furthermore, the region was known for its craftsmanship, particularly the skilful processing of silver and the creation of items from precious woods.

Chronology of Key Events

May 9, 1831: Considered the official founding date of the city, when Dutch explorer Vosmaer arrived in the bay to build a trading post.

January 24, 1942: During World War II, Japanese forces captured Kendari and its strategically important airfield.

March 27, 1942: The last Dutch units, which had been waging guerrilla warfare in the surrounding areas, surrendered to Japanese forces.

August 17, 1945: Along with the rest of the country, Kendari becomes part of the independent Republic of Indonesia following the proclamation of independence.

September 23, 1964: The city receives the status of an administrative centre and capital of the newly formed province of Southeast Sulawesi.

1981: A local private university receives state status and becomes known as Halu Oleo University, transforming into the region's main scientific and educational centre.

February 13, 2010: The city's main airport was renamed Haluoleo Airport in honour of a historic local sultan.

October 22, 2020: The official opening of the Kendari Bay Bridge took place—a landmark infrastructure project that significantly improved transport connectivity within the city.

The development of Kendari from a small port settlement to a modern administrative centre was driven by a series of key events. These milestones defined its economic, cultural, and urban character.

Key Stages of City Development

• Achieving Provincial Capital Status (1964). On September 23, 1964, Kendari became the administrative centre of the newly formed Southeast Sulawesi province. This event was a powerful catalyst for growth: significant government investments were directed into the city, leading to infrastructure development, the construction of government buildings, and an increase in population.
• Foundation of the State University (1981). The transformation of a private university into the state-run Halu Oleo University (Universitas Halu Oleo) turned Kendari into the region's premier educational and scientific hub. This attracted students and lecturers to the city, fostering an intellectual environment and training qualified personnel for the local economy.
• Modernisation of Port and Air Infrastructure. As a historic port city, Kendari has always relied on sea routes. The modernisation of the port and the expansion of the airport, which was named after Sultan Haluoleo in 2010, strengthened its role as a vital transport and logistics node. This facilitated trade growth and improved accessibility for tourists and businesses.
• Tourism Development. Thanks to its location and natural beauty, such as Nambo Beach and its proximity to the world-renowned Wakatobi diving resort, Kendari began actively developing its tourism industry. This led to the emergence of new hotels, restaurants, and the creation of jobs in the service sector, diversifying the city's economy.
• Construction of the Kendari Bay Bridge (2020). The opening of the 2.3-kilometre bridge became a major urban planning achievement. This iconic project not only became a new symbol of the city but also radically improved transport links between different parts of Kendari, reducing travel time and stimulating the development of new districts.
• Growth of Craftsmanship. Kendari and its surroundings are famous for traditional crafts, particularly silver processing and woodwork using precious timber. Support and development of these crafts help preserve cultural heritage and create unique goods for tourists, contributing to the local economy.

The architectural appearance of Kendari represents a blend of functional modern development and striking iconic projects that reflect its status as a fast-growing provincial capital. Unlike the ancient cities of Indonesia, there are no distinct historical eras here akin to Gothic or Renaissance styles. Urban development was dictated primarily by the practical needs of a port and administrative centre.

Main Stages and Styles

• Traditional and Colonial Development: Historically, the foundation of the built environment consisted of traditional wooden stilt houses, characteristic of the peoples of Sulawesi. With the arrival of the Dutch in the 19th century, the first utilitarian European-style structures appeared—mainly administrative buildings and warehouses. However, this period did not leave significant architectural monuments in the city, as Kendari's main growth occurred in the second half of the 20th century.
• Independence Era Architecture: After receiving the status of provincial capital in 1964, active construction began in Kendari. This period is characterised by functional architecture in the spirit of modernism—government buildings, offices, and public institutions were built from concrete and featured simple geometric forms, primarily meeting the objectives of rapid city development.
• Modern Architecture (Late 20th – Early 21st Century): The current look of the city is defined by modern and post-modern buildings. This period is marked by the appearance of iconic structures that have become the new symbols of Kendari.

Iconic Structures

Two key objects have formed the modern and recognisable silhouette of Kendari:

Al-Alam Mosque (Masjid Al-Alam) — one of the most impressive structures in the city. This "floating" mosque, built in the middle of the bay, is a brilliant example of modern Islamic architecture. Its unique design with four asymmetrical minarets, curving like flower petals, makes it an architectural landmark and a popular attraction.

Kendari Bay Bridge (Jembatan Teluk Kendari) — not only a vital infrastructure project but also an expressive example of modern engineering. This cable-stayed bridge, opened in 2020, has become a new symbol of the city, looking particularly spectacular at night thanks to dynamic lighting. Its elegant silhouette has changed the panorama of the bay and set a new scale for the city's further development.

Distinguished Figures Associated with Kendari

Although Kendari is not a massive metropolis, the city's history and modernity are marked by the names of several significant figures who have contributed to the development of the region in various spheres—from governance to culture.

• Halu Oleo — a historical figure and 17th-century Sultan. Although he was not the direct ruler of Kendari, he is revered as one of the greatest leaders of the Buton region, having exerted significant influence over the entire territory of Southeast Sulawesi. His name is immortalised in the name of the main university (Universitas Halu Oleo) and the city's international airport, highlighting his historical significance for the entire province.
• Vosmaer — a Dutch explorer. He is considered the founder of modern Kendari. In 1831, he arrived in the bay and chose this location for the construction of a trading post, which laid the foundation for the city's development as a port and administrative centre.
• Ali Mazi — a contemporary politician. He served twice as the Governor of Southeast Sulawesi (2003–2008 and 2018–2023). During his leadership, major infrastructure projects were implemented, including road construction and the modernisation of public facilities in Kendari and throughout the province.
• Asrun — a former Mayor of Kendari. He held the post of city leader for two terms (2007–2017) and made a significant contribution to the modern development and beautification of the city. During his tenure, many urban programmes to improve infrastructure were launched.
• Idham Azis — a high-ranking national figure. Born in Kendari, he rose to the position of Chief of the Indonesian National Police (2019–2021), becoming one of the most well-known individuals from this city on the national stage.
• Agristany — a writer and poetess. She is one of the notable figures in the contemporary literature of Southeast Sulawesi. In her works, she often addresses themes of local culture, history, and the social life of the region, contributing to the preservation and popularisation of Kendari's cultural heritage.