Karimata Strait

Karimata Strait connects the South China Sea and Java Sea between Sumatra and Borneo. Its waters form part of a wider maritime region linking Malay ports, Java and western Borneo's river mouths. Navigation depends on knowledge of weather, currents and shallow waters.

During the early modern centuries, sultanates, river rulers and commercial centres held influence across the wider region. Portuguese control of Melaka and the growth of Johor and Dutch company power changed trading relationships. Merchants operated across the claims of different states.