Java Sea, Part of Pacific Ocean between Java, Borneo, and Sumatra, Indonesia
The Java Sea is a body of water bordered by Java, Borneo, and Sumatra with a notably shallow seafloor. Its flat bottom and calm waters make it distinct from deeper ocean regions.
During World War II, this sea was the site of a naval battle between Japanese and Allied forces in February 1942. The outcome allowed Japan to move forward with its invasion of Java.
Fishing communities along the Java Sea coast have relied on traditional boats and methods for centuries as their primary way of life. These practices remain central to how people on the islands connect with the sea.
The shallow waters and flat bottom require boats and ships to navigate carefully through this region. Local fisher boats remain the most common vessels seen on the water.
Long ago during ice ages when sea levels were lower, the seafloor of this body of water was dry land. This ancient land bridge allowed Asian animals to migrate westward into Indonesia over many thousands of years.
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