Environment and Development in the Straits of Malacca

ISBN-13: 9780415172431 / Angielski / Twarda / 2000 / 224 str.

Kim Chuan Goh; Mark Cleary

Opis

The Straits of Malacca is one of the most important stretches of water in the world. Through its sea lanes have passed the ships of the major trading nations of the world. European colonialism from the 17th century onwards in the form of sailing ships gave it and the surrounding region significant geostrategic importance. Throughout the 20th century, the economic growth of South East Asia, built on trade and economic development, has continued to reinforce the importance of the Straits. This book is a study of the environment and development of the Straits. Taking an integrative approach, the book argues that the region has an underlying unity which political divisions (between Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore) disguise. It emphasizes three major elements: first, the historical geography of the region highlights its role as a sea-corridor which both connected the markets of India and China. Secondly, contemporary patterns of economic development and trade have continued to build the importance of the region. Thirdly, major environmental problems now threaten the sea and the coast: from pollution to traffic to tourism.

Spis treści

1. Introduction: A Seaborne World Part one: The Shaping of the Environment 2. Physical structures 3. Landscapes, vegetation and soils Part two: Resources and Techniques 4. Resource use in the coastal and marine zone 5. Technology, resources and development Part three: Collective histories 6. Early maritime empires c700-1700 7. Colonial intensification and the rise of Singapore Part four: Collective opportunities 8. Economic development and political change 9. The Straits: the international dimension 10. Environmental issues and their management 11. Conclusion

O autorze

Goh Kim Chuan, Mark Cleary