Madura Strait, Marine passage between Java and Madura islands, Indonesia
Madura Strait is a marine passage between Java and Madura islands in East Java, extending roughly 160 kilometers with varying widths from 2 to 30 kilometers. The Suramadu Bridge crosses it, linking Surabaya on Java to Bangkalan on Madura.
The strait formed in 202 through an earthquake that split one landmass into the present-day Java and Madura islands. This geological event shaped the region's geography permanently.
Local communities perform the Pethik Laut ritual, releasing offerings into the waters on specific dates following the Islamic calendar. This practice reflects how the waterway remains woven into the spiritual and social life of those living nearby.
Crossing via the Suramadu Bridge takes about 10 minutes and offers a direct link between the two islands. Visitors should note that conditions on the bridge depend on traffic volume and weather conditions.
Several small islands occupy the waters, including Kambing, Giliraja, Genteng, and Ketapang, each supporting different ecosystems. These lesser-known islands offer visitors a glimpse into the biological diversity of the region often overlooked.
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