divided island of southeast asia crossword – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "divided island of southeast asia crossword" by Letter Count
6 Letters
BORNEO: The third-largest island in the world, Borneo is politically divided among three countries: Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei. This makes it a quintessential "divided island" of Southeast Asia.
More About "divided island of southeast asia crossword"
The island of Borneo is a fascinating geographical and political entity, truly embodying the "divided island" description. Its vast landmass is home to a unique blend of cultures, ecosystems, and political systems, as it is shared by three different nations.
Indonesia governs the largest part, known as Kalimantan, which covers about 73% of the island's area. Malaysia controls the northern part, comprising the states of Sabah and Sarawak, as well as the federal territory of Labuan. Sandwiched between these Malaysian states lies the tiny, oil-rich Sultanate of Brunei Darussalam, which occupies a relatively small but strategically significant coastal area.
This political fragmentation is a legacy of colonial history, primarily British and Dutch influences, which carved up the island in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, Borneo is renowned for its immense biodiversity, including ancient rainforests, unique wildlife like orangutans, and significant natural resources. Understanding its divided nature is key to solving this popular crossword clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Region: When clues mention a specific geographic region like "Southeast Asia," immediately think of major countries, islands, capitals, or prominent natural features within that area.
- Consider Descriptors: Words like "divided," "largest," "capital," or "river" provide crucial hints. "Divided island" strongly points to entities shared by multiple political entities.
- Count Letters Carefully: Always verify the number of letters you need. This is a fundamental step in narrowing down potential answers, especially for common places that might have multiple similar-sounding names.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes, the answer isn't the most famous country but a significant island or feature within that country or region.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries share the island of Borneo?
The island of Borneo is divided among three countries: Indonesia (which governs the largest portion known as Kalimantan), Malaysia (with the states of Sabah and Sarawak), and the independent Sultanate of Brunei Darussalam.
Why is Borneo considered a 'divided island'?
Borneo is called a 'divided island' because its landmass is split by international political borders, rather than being a single sovereign nation. This division stems from historical colonial influences and subsequent independence movements.
How can I solve crossword clues related to geography or specific regions?
For geographical clues, consider using an atlas or online maps if permitted, think about major countries or landforms in the specified region, and pay close attention to the number of letters required. Common answers for regions like Southeast Asia often include major islands, capitals, or prominent physical features. Sometimes, thinking about the historical context or common associations with a place can also help.