Sumba Island

Sumba Island or Sandalwood Island, one of the Sunda Islands in the Malay Archipelago, southern Indonesia, near the island of Flores. The island consists of an elevated plateau 600 m (2,000 ft) above sea level, with steep and rocky coasts, and it contains forests of valuable timber, including sandalwood and teak. Lumber and an excellent breed of horses are exported, mainly from the chief center, Waingapu. The island was first visited by Europeans during the 16th century. In 1866 Sumba Island came under direct Dutch control, and in 1950 it became part of Indonesia. Area, 11,100 sq km (4,300 sq mi).