SANGIHE ISLANDS

Indonesian Kepulauan Sangihe, also spelled Sangi islands, constituting Sangihe Talaud kabupaten (regency), off the northeastern tip of Celebes, Indonesia. The islands are administered from Manado, the capital of Sulawesi Utara provinsi (province). The island group comprises Sangihe, Siau, Tahulandang, Biaro, and a number of islets, with a total area of 408 square miles (1,056 square km). The capital of the regency is Tahuna (Taruna), on Sangihe's western coast. The volcano Mount Awu (6,070 feet ) on Sangihe is active. The prevailing religion of the islands' inhabitants is Christianity. Manila hemp is grown, and its weaving is the most important industry, but fishing and shipping are also important. Pop. (1980) 238,433.