Consisting of more than
17,000 islands, the vast Indonesian archipelago spans 5,120 km
across the equator, positioned between the Asian and Australian
continents. Four-fifths of the area is sea with the major
islands of Sumatera, Java, Kalimantan, Sulawesi and Papua. The
300 ethnic groups that exist harmoniously give birth to a potpourri
of cultures and fascinating people. The major ethnic groups
are: Minangkabaunese, Malay, Javanese, Sundanese, Maduranese and
Ambonnese. Arab, Chinese and Indian immigrants have also
settled in regions throughout the country, particularly in the
coastal cities.
Geographically,
Indonesia's landscape is greatly varied. Java and Bali have
the most fertile islands and rice fields are concentrated in these
two regions, whereas Sumatra, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Maluku and Papua
are still largely covered with tropical rainforest. Open
savannah and grassland characterize Nusa Tenggara.
The lowland that
comprise most of Indonesia has a characteristically tropical climate
with abundant rainfall, high-temperatures and humidity. Rainy
Indonesia's tropical climate and unique geographical character
provide shelter for flora and fauna that are as diversely rich as
its land and people. The plant and animals in Indonesia's
western region represent that of mainland Asia while those in the
eastern region are typical of Australia. Endemic species,
which are the pride of Indonesia exist in the central region, such
as orangutans, tigers, one-horned rhinos, elephants, dugongs, anoas
and komodo dragons. The warm tropical waters of the
archipelago nurture a rich marine environment that holds a myriad of
fish, coral species and marine mammals.
A cultural heritage
passed on through generations offers a wealth of traditional arts
and crafts. Batik, wooden carvings, weavings, silverworks and
many other traditional skills produce exquisitely beautiful
items. Indonesia's multi-racial and multi-religious culture
mean festivals steeped in traditions are celebrated throughout the
year. Frequently featured in these events are dances, wayang
theaters and other performing arts.
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