Maluku is known as the island of spices. In the 14th century, European merchants sought out exotic goods for far away markets.
The Air Tege-Tege village, situated on the slope of Gamalama Mountain in North Maluku, is home to several nutmeg plantations, and the world’s oldest clove tree, Cengkeh Afu. Both spices have become symbols of prosperity and unity in North Maluku (Ino fo makati nyinga doka gosora se bualawa).Nutmeg has been turned into an emblem of wealth, where it’s sold for Rp 120,000 ($12) per kilogram. Even the skin can be sold for up to Rp 200,000 ($20) per kilogram.
