This study describes the dynamics of the Tukang Besi Archipelago islanders in the Indonesian maritime network from 1960-1990. Generally, the people of the islands are seafarers. However, the main islands in this region can be mapped in different typologies, namely: Wangi-Wangi as a pottery producer, Kaledupa which is known as a producer of food crops, Tomia which excels in dried fish products, and Binongko as a center for iron crafts. The Bajo community that has mingled in these islands also plays an essential role as fishers for fresh fish providers. The exchange of commodities to meet basic needs then forms the typical patterns of interaction in society. However, a number of national policies such as settlements relocation, changes in copra trade regulations, and sailboats motorization program led to some changes in the islands. However, the response of the people on each island to these changes was also different, thus shifting the previous pattern of interaction. This study uses an oral history method that is supported by an analysis of relevant archival sources. In addition, this study applies Radcliffe-Brown's structuralism-functionalist conceptual approach.
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