Why Everyone in This Indonesian Tribe Has Striking Blue Eyes?

May 02, 2025 Komal Das

On Indonesia’s Buton Island, blue eyes are a common feature among locals, but they come with a unique story and challenges

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The people of Buton Island, part of Sulawesi province, belong to the Buton tribe and are known for their mesmerizing blue eyes

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This stunning eye color is caused by Waardenburg Syndrome, a rare genetic condition affecting about one in 42,000 people globally

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Waardenburg Syndrome leads to unique pigmentation in the eyes but also brings complications like hearing loss and unpigmented skin patches

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Some individuals with the condition may have one blue eye and one brown eye, adding to their distinctive appearance

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While the blue eyes are captivating, the health challenges they signify make life for the Buton tribe more complex than it appears

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