Watulai, Batuley in Indonesia

Introduction / History

The Batuley Watulai people live on the southeastern coast of the Aru Islands in Maluku Province, Indonesia. Their language, Batuley, is part of the Central Malayo-Polynesian branch of the Austronesian family and shares similarities with other languages spoken throughout the Aru archipelago. The name Watulai refers to one of the principal villages where this subgroup resides.

Historically, the Batuley Watulai were coastal fishermen and traders who interacted with nearby island communities through barter and intermarriage. During the colonial period, Dutch traders and missionaries visited the region, bringing new influences such as Christianity, literacy, and limited education. Despite these outside influences, the Batuley Watulai have preserved many aspects of their traditional culture and identity, including the Islamic religion.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Batuley Watulai live in small, close-knit coastal settlements where fishing and sago gathering are the main sources of livelihood. The men spend much of their time at sea, while women process sago, gather shellfish, and care for the household. Their houses are typically built on wooden stilts near the shoreline, using palm materials and timber from nearby forests. Life moves according to the rhythm of the tides and the seasons, with community cooperation being essential for survival. Access to modern education and healthcare is limited, and travel between islands is often restricted by weather and the lack of reliable transportation. In spite of these challenges, the Batuley Watulai maintain strong family ties and a deep connection to their environment.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Islam is the dominant faith among three-fourths the Batuley Watulai, but they also have a strong Christian presence. Some continue to perform rituals for protection, healing, or good fortune, showing how traditional beliefs and Christianity or Islam coexist in daily life.

What Are Their Needs?

Quality education remains a challenge, as schools are few and teachers seldom stay long in remote villages. Medical care is minimal, leaving families vulnerable to illness and injury without proper treatment. Spiritually, there is a strong need for teaching and discipleship in the Batuley language so that the people can understand the gospel more clearly and grow in faith grounded in Scripture.

Prayer Points

Pray that the Batuley Watulai people will experience a deep spiritual awakening and come to know Jesus in a personal way.
Ask that local church leaders will grow in biblical knowledge and be equipped to teach truth with clarity and love.
Pray for translation efforts and the production of Christian materials in the Batuley language to help believers mature in faith.
Intercede for unity among Christians in the Aru Islands so that their witness will draw others to God's transforming grace.

Text Source:   Joshua Project