The Blue Eyes of Sulawesi

Somewhere deep in Sulawesi, Indonesia, lives the Buton tribe. Their electric blue eyes have caught the world's attention. Quite rare in Southeast Asia. This eye color comes from Waardenburg syndrome. It's genetic. Affects pigmentation. Hearing too.

Some folks think Portuguese settlers might have something to do with it. Maybe. Not entirely clear. But genetics experts say it's mostly just a mutation in their DNA. Rare everywhere else, but somehow concentrated here.

Their blue eyes against tan skin? Kind of striking. Draws people in. Photographers love it. Scientists too. By September 2025, more research teams will be there. They're curious. Who wouldn't be?

The Buton aren't alone on the island. Sulawesi has many indigenous groups. The Bugis sail the seas. Makassar people too. They live by siri' na pacce - seems to be about honor and sticking together. Then there's the Toraja with their elaborate funerals. Their houses - tongkonan - look amazing.

This blue-eyed tribe? Just another fascinating thread in Sulawesi's cultural fabric. Makes the whole region special. More than you might expect.