"45 miles and 23 miles wide, a century of history."
The island of Biak also spelled as WIAK was discovered in 1567 by the Spain Alvarez, and by Willem Corneliszoon Schouten, Dutch explorer whose in his 1615- 16 expedition discovered a new route, the Drake Passage, around the southern trip of South America, connecting the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific.
Biak Island is largest of the Schouten Islands, off the northern coast of West Papua (Indonesian, Irian Jaya) at the entrance to Cendrawasih (Geelvink) Bay.
Biak was seized by the Japanese in April 1942 during their expansion in World War II; and defetead by Allied forces maintenance their way to Okinawa in 1944. Until now you could see some of the World War II Wreck on Biak, which also make Biak one of many World War II nostalgic destinations.
In the earlier decade of 1900, Chinesse trader set Bosnik at the east Biak as the town of Biak, and open a trade for spices, crocodile skins, rattan, fishes, sea-cucumbers and many more.
At World War II, Bosnik (Bosnik Village) was being seized by Japanesse troops, and the activity of Biak was moved to Sorido by Allied Forced, as they set a millitary camp there (Nicacamp). At September 1944, Japanesse total surrender and and for the first time, Biak is furnishing. There was a theatre (bioscoop), bakery, cafee, and lounge.
During 1950 till 1963. Netherland New Guinea goverment administration develop Wapnor Harbor and Mokmer Airport, and set Biak as the International City. For once, this town has many flights, ship route, and traders. You could senses the old Biak downhere since many building and road layout were still remains the same.
1961 - 1963, Thesse were a hard years for Biak, as well as the others regions in West Papua. Late President Sukarno issues the 'peoples' Triple Command' (TRIKORA) calling for the total mobilization of the Indonesian people to West Irian.
1962, Date August 15. Indonesia and the Netherlands signed New York Agreement, where Dutch control of West New Guinea handed to Indonesia. United Nations Military Observer team named to ensure execution of ceasefire, latter on UNTEA administration formed for West Irian, Last Dutch troops depart from Biak.
At August 1965 Indonesia launches Operation Sadar, a battalion of the Indonesian army parachute commando regiment is flown to Biak from Jakarta.
1969-1980, Indonesian goverments furnishing Biak with many officials building and military bases utilize the building which NNG lefts. People were aware about The nature beauty which embracing to entire Biak's regency, but it's remain untouchable.
At the late 80's. Biak was considered by most travelers as a stop-over on flights to Bali and Jakarta from Honolulu and Los Angeles.
Plans are being developed to make this island and their offshores itself an international resort. As Marauw Beach Hotel being opended, on 325 hectares of land just 35 minutes from Frans Kaisepo International Airport.
Unfortunelly this international class tourist resort are now being closed and tear down because lack of management of fund, and cancellation of flight routes.
Biak is the paradise which has no name.
Until now Biak is still opening up a vast undersea empire to those who wish to explore it. The largest beautifull coral reef on the world, and bird sanctuaries that include beautiful varieties of birds, parrots and cockatoos.