Maluku (province)

Maluku is a super cool place in Indonesia, like a string of islands floating in the ocean. It's in the eastern part of the country, between other big islands called Sulawesi and New Guinea. Think of it as a secret treasure chest filled with amazing islands!

The biggest city here is called Ambon, and it's on a small island that's also named Ambon. It's a place where lots of people live and play on these beautiful islands.

A long, long time ago, all the Maluku Islands were one big family, like one giant province. But then, in 1999, some of the northern islands decided to become their own province, like siblings moving to a new neighborhood! So, Maluku became a bit smaller, but it's still a very important and special place with its own unique stories. It's like a chapter in a big history book about Indonesia.

Maluku is special because it's home to so many people, almost 2 million! That's like filling up a giant stadium many, many times over. People here believe in different things, with about half believing in Islam and the other half in Christianity.

This mix of beliefs makes Maluku a vibrant place with lots of different traditions and celebrations. It’s like a big party with everyone sharing their own special ways of life.

Maluku is surrounded by other places and big blue seas. To the north, it's close to North Maluku and some places called Papua. To the west, it's near Sulawesi. Down south, it's near Australia and the Banda Sea. And to the east, it touches the Arafura Sea. It's like having lots of friends and big watery playgrounds all around it, making it a busy and connected part of the world.