I am encouraged reading the feedback from readers on my story titled “Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman is a transformative leader and the first Muslim woman Mayor of Isabela City, Basilan” published by newswav.com dated Monday, 31st August 2026. Many readers wanted to know more about the real significance of this cultural diversity City Government of Isabela de Basilan, and maritime legacy of its people. The most touching comments was from Dato' Seri Abdul Mutalib Razak, a corporate lawyer & Chairman of KerjayaOne PLT who is also the former Chairman of Media Prima. Permit me to quote DS, “Great OE (Old Edwardian - alumni of King Edward VII School, Taiping), acting like an ambassador to bridge the relations between the two countries.”
I learned Isabela City on Basilan Island started as a native coastal settlement called Pasangan before Spanish occupation in 1844. In July 1845, Spanish officials named the place Isabela in honor of their Queen Isabela II of Spain. The beauty of Isabela City brings together the diverse communities, including Yakan, Tausug, Sama Banguingui, and Chavacanao-speaking populations, blending Islamic heritage with Spanish-colonial history. (https://pia.gov.ph)
Beyond the mere spectacle, my wife, Zarina & I have visited Isabela City, a homage of the rich cultural diversity & promising legacy of sustainable tourism, under the vibrant leadership of Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman. The hidden gems of Isabela, known in tourism for its stunning greenery landscapes, seascapes and indigenous cultural diversity, is also a haven of rich flora & fauna. Above all, we like experiencing the delicious culinary heritage flavors.
We love the Pahali Resorts at Malamawi White Beach, a popular coastal destination boosting the local sustainable tourism economy. Well, aside from the natural wonders, Isabela City prides itself on its religious and cultural landmarks. The Old Grand Mosque in Sumagdang showcases the city's Islamic heritage and cultural diversity. Marang-Marang Floating Cottage, in the thick mangrove lagoon forest, run by the Marang Marang Women's Association.
Zulkifly Baharom (hajizul50@gmail.com) is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!
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