A Detailed Insight into Indonesia Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

A Detailed Insight into Indonesia - Essay Example The largest and the most famous amongst these are Java, Sumatra, Kalimantan, New Guinea, and Sulawesi. It shares borders with Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor, Singapore, Philippines and Australia. Since this country is located right near the Australian, Pacific and Eurasian tectonic plates, it is an earthquake prone country and also sees a high level of volcanic activity. Indonesia is a hot and humid tropical country and experiences a lot of rain. Since its location is on the seacoast, Indonesia has long been an important trade center, right from the seventh century with strong trade relations with China and India. As a result, it adopted many Indian and Chinese cultural and religious practices and had many Hindu and Buddhist dynasties that ruled here. Its rich natural resources have also attracted many other foreign traders, who also added their cultural influences. The Muslim traders brought in the religion of Islam, while European powers that have also left a cultural impac t, fought over the right of the Spice Trade in the island of Maluku. The different ethnic and various religious societies that inhabit the various islands of Indonesia are different from each other and they reflect the natural diversity of this colorful country. Although the islands that form this archipelago are all connected to each other through trade, wars, politics and the formation of the republic of Indonesia, they have managed to stay apart, culturally.