| Total population | |
|---|---|
| 13,900[1] | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
| Languages | |
| Tukangbesi-Bonerate languages (Bonerate language), Indonesian language | |
| Religion | |
| Islam | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| Butonese • Makassar • Selayar |
The Bonerate people are an ethnic group in South Sulawesi, Indonesia. They inhabit around the Selayar island group such as Bonerate, Madu, Kalaotoa, and Karompa islands.[2]
The Bonerate people are generally Muslims.[3] Some traditional beliefs are still extant among the Bonerate.[4] Sexually provocative behaviour occurs in possession-trance ritual practiced by women only[5] and were carried out in a way by which they smother glowing embers with their bare feet at the climax of the ritual.[6] The Bonerate language is closely related to the language of the Tukang Besi islands off the southeast coast of Buton island.[7][8]
Many Bonerate are agriculturists, utilizing the slash-and-burn technique. Common crops grown include corn, cassava, several fruits like papaya and bananas and some vegetables like beans and peas. Some Bonerate also work as shipbuilders and sailors.[4]