What is Bawean and where is it located?

Bawean is an island in Indonesia, situated approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) north of Surabaya in the Java Sea, off the coast of Java. It is administered by the Gresik Regency within the East Java province.

What are the physical dimensions and geographical features of Bawean Island?

Bawean Island has a diameter of about 15 km (9.3 miles) and is circumnavigated by a single narrow road. Its landscape is dominated by an extinct volcano at its center, which rises to 655 meters (2,149 feet) above sea level, leading locals to sometimes refer to it as the "island of 99 hills."

How has the population of Bawean Island been affected by migration, and what is the resulting demographic characteristic?

A significant portion of Bawean's male population temporarily lives and works abroad, primarily in Singapore and Malaysia. This has led to a demographic imbalance where females constitute a majority of the island's actual resident population, earning it the nickname "the Island of Women" (Pulau Putri).

What are the administrative divisions of Bawean Island?

Bawean Island is divided into two administrative districts: Sangkapura and Tambak. Sangkapura District, located on the southern coast and centered around its namesake town, holds the majority of the island's population.

What unique endemic species is found on Bawean Island?

Bawean Island is home to the Bawean deer (Axis kuhlii), a species found exclusively on the island and listed on the IUCN Red List. This deer is considered endemic, meaning it is found nowhere else in the world.

What is the believed origin and meaning of the name Bawean?

The name Bawean is thought to derive from the Kawi or Sanskrit phrase meaning "having the sunlight." Legend suggests Javanese sailors named it after seeing a light around it during a mist, having previously known it by the Arabic name Majidi.

What name was given to Bawean Island during the Dutch colonial period, and how was it received?

During the Dutch colonization in the 18th to 20th centuries, the island was renamed Lubok. However, this name was not widely adopted, as both the local inhabitants and the Dutch themselves continued to use the original name, Bawean.

Why is Bawean sometimes referred to as the "Island of Women"?

Bawean is often called the "Island of Women" because a large percentage of its male population temporarily migrates for work to other regions, including Malaysia and Singapore. This results in the actual resident population being predominantly female, estimated at around 77% at times.

What historical significance did Bawean Island hold in the pre-colonial period regarding trade and religion?

In the early Middle Ages, ships frequently used Bawean's harbor. Permanent settlements date to the 15th century, and by the 16th-17th centuries, the island was visited by Muslim preachers. Mass conversion to Islam began after 1601 with the arrival of theologian Sheik Maulana Umar Mas'ud, whose dynasty ruled independently.

How did the Dutch East India Company establish control over Bawean?

Dutch sailors first encountered Bawean during Cornelis de Houtman's expedition in 1597. The island was regularly visited by the Dutch East India Company ships in the 17th-18th centuries as they expanded their influence, and it officially came under their control in 1743.

What was the primary role of Bawean Island for the Dutch East India Company?

Bawean held little direct economic value for the Dutch East India Company. Instead, it primarily served as a resting stop for ships navigating the sea routes between Java and Borneo.

How was Bawean administered after the Dutch East India Company's dissolution?

Following the bankruptcy of the Dutch East India Company in 1798, Bawean came under the direct administration of the Netherlands Crown. While a Dutch official governed the island, native nobility retained some influence, and local Muslim courts handled judicial matters.

When did Bawean men begin migrating for work, and where did they primarily go?

Starting from the late 19th century, men from Bawean began migrating for work, particularly to British colonial possessions in the Malay Peninsula, with Singapore being a major destination. This migration was facilitated by foreign recruiters and was not hindered by Dutch authorities due to the island's perceived overpopulation.

What role did Bawean Island play during World War II naval engagements?

Bawean Island was located near significant naval battles between Japanese and Allied forces during the Dutch East Indies campaign of 1941-1942. Notably, the Second Battle of the Java Sea, also known as the Battle off Bawean, occurred in its vicinity.

What major naval events occurred near Bawean during World War II?

During World War II, the First and Second Battles of the Java Sea took place near Bawean. These battles resulted in the sinking of several Allied ships, including the Dutch light cruiser HNLMS De Ruyter and the British heavy cruiser HMS Exeter, effectively ending Anglo-Dutch resistance in the region.

How did Bawean transition politically after World War II?

After Indonesia's proclamation of independence in 1945, Bawean initially remained under de facto Dutch control. It was included in the quasi-independent state of Madura in 1948, then joined the Republic of the United States of Indonesia in December 1949, and finally became part of the Republic of Indonesia in March 1950.

Describe the geographical location and shape of Bawean Island.

Bawean Island is situated in the Java Sea, approximately 150 km north of Madura and 93 miles north of Surabaya. It has a nearly round shape, with a diameter averaging about 15 km (9.3 miles).

What are some of the coastal and offshore geographical features of Bawean Island?

Bawean's shores are characterized by winding coastlines with numerous small bays. Off its coast, there are many small sandy islands known as 'noko', rocks, and coral reefs extending up to 600 meters offshore.

What is the highest point on Bawean Island, and what is its elevation?

The highest point on Bawean Island is a hill named Gunung Tinggi, which translates to "high mountain" in Indonesian. It reaches an elevation of 655 meters (2,149 feet) above sea level.

What significant caldera lake is located on Bawean Island?

Lake Kastoba (Danau Kastoba) is the largest caldera lake on Bawean Island. It covers an area of about 0.3 km², has a depth of 140 meters, and is situated at an altitude of approximately 300 meters.

What is the climate like on Bawean Island?

Bawean experiences a tropical monsoonal climate, which is slightly less humid than the average for its region in Indonesia. Temperature fluctuations are minimal, with average highs around 30°C and lows around 24.5°C.

What are the dominant wind patterns and rainy season on Bawean?

The rainy season on Bawean typically occurs from December to March. Northwesterly winds are prevalent during the rainy period, while easterly winds dominate the dry season.

What geological composition characterizes Bawean Island?

Bawean Island originated from a volcano, and its surface is predominantly composed of igneous rocks (about 85%), with occasional occurrences of limestone, sandstone, and dolomite. The soil varies from alluvial deposits in coastal areas to laterite in higher regions.

Is Bawean Island geologically stable, and what natural resources does it possess?

The area is considered seismically active, experiencing frequent tremors that can lead to landslides. The island also contains deposits of coal and onyx, which have been mined since the early 2000s, and significant underwater oil and gas fields are located around it.

How has the natural vegetation of Bawean Island changed over time?

Historically, Bawean was covered by virgin rainforest, but human activities, including large-scale teak planting starting in the 1930s, have led to significant deforestation. By the end of the 20th century, forests covered less than 10% of the island, with cultivated teak now occupying about 15% of the land.

What are some characteristic plant species found in Bawean's jungles and coastal areas?

The island's jungles feature dense undergrowth with ferns, bryophytes, and orchids. Common trees include Ficus, Nauclea, and Symplocos adenophylla. Coastal areas have mangrove bushes, with species like Sonneratia alba and Rhizophora mucronata being prominent.

What is the most unique endemic animal species on Bawean Island?

The most unique endemic species is the Bawean deer (Axis kuhlii), also known as Kuhl's deer or the Bawean hog deer. It is a symbol of the island and is legally protected in Indonesia.

What is the conservation status of the Bawean deer?

The Bawean deer is critically endangered, with fewer than 250 individuals remaining, mostly in a single population. This low number poses a risk of genetic bottlenecking due to inbreeding.

Besides the Bawean deer, what other mammals and reptiles inhabit the island?

Other mammals found on Bawean include the crab-eating macaque, Sunda porcupine, small Indian civet, and Asian palm civet. Reptiles include various monitor lizards, the reticulated python, and occasionally saltwater crocodiles near inland waterways.

What conservation measures have been implemented for Bawean's natural reserves?

Conservation efforts began during the Dutch colonial era with the declaration of five forest reserves in 1932. Following Indonesian independence, two national nature reserves were established in 1979, covering significant areas primarily to protect the Bawean deer's habitat and forest density.

To which administrative regions does Bawean Island belong?

Bawean Island is part of the East Java province and falls under the jurisdiction of the Gresik Regency. It is divided into two districts, Sangkapura and Tambak.

How is the population and area distributed between the two districts of Bawean?

Sangkapura District, located on the southern coast, contains about 63.65% of the island's population and covers an area of 118.72 km². Tambak District, in the northern part, comprises the remaining 36.35% of the population and covers 78.70 km².

What is the primary source of income for the majority of Bawean's population?

The main source of income for most Bawean residents comes from money earned by relatives who are working abroad, particularly in Singapore and Malaysia. This reliance on remittances significantly impacts the island's economy.

What are the main agricultural activities and economic pursuits on Bawean Island?

Islanders primarily engage in growing rice, maize, potatoes, and coconuts, though yields are often lower than on Java due to less mechanization and more frequent droughts. Other economic activities include fishing, teak cultivation, and handicraft workshops.

What mineral resources are mined on Bawean Island?

Since 2006, onyx has been mined on Bawean Island by several Taiwanese companies. The island also has coal deposits.

What is the state of healthcare and education on Bawean Island?

Bawean has approximately 30 schools, but lacks a hospital, relying instead on pharmacies and small clinics. Many young people pursue higher education on Java and often do not return to the island.

What sports are popular among the youth of Bawean?

Despite the lack of advanced equipment, local athletes excel in sports like table tennis and sepak takraw, a popular Southeast Asian ball game. Volleyball also gained popularity in the 2000s, with numerous registered teams.

What are the main transportation methods and infrastructure challenges on Bawean?

The island has a main ring road along the coast, but a significant portion is in poor condition. While motorized vehicles exist, travel is often done by bicycle, horse cart, or becak. The main port, Sangkapura, connects the island to East Java and Madura.

What efforts are being made to promote tourism on Bawean Island?

Local governments are promoting Bawean's natural attractions, such as Lake Kastoba, hot springs, waterfalls, caves, beaches, and coral reefs, to attract tourists. However, poor infrastructure and the island's remoteness hinder tourism development.

What is the status and operational history of Bawean Airport?

Bawean Airport, officially named Harun Thohir Airport, was developed with a runway extended to 1,200 meters to accommodate 50-seater aircraft. After a period of development and handover to the central government, it officially began operations in January 2016.

How does migration impact the population statistics of Bawean Island?

High rates of temporary and permanent migration, particularly of males seeking work abroad, make accurate population counts challenging. The number of residents living abroad significantly affects the island's total population figures.

What was the population trend on Bawean Island from the early 20th century to 2020?

The population remained stable at around 30,000 between 1900 and 1930. It then increased significantly to over 59,000 by 1964 due to improved living conditions and migration from Madura, before continuing to grow at a slower rate to over 80,000 by 2020.

What are the primary ethnic groups that have historically settled on Bawean?

Initially settled by people from Madura and Java, Bawean later saw an influx of traders and fishermen from Bugis and Malayan ethnicities. Migrants from Palembang also formed a community and became dominant in trade.

How do Baweans identify themselves when living abroad?

Despite diverse ethnic origins, Baweans living abroad tend to form compact communities and identify themselves collectively as Baweans, rather than by their specific Indonesian ethnic group. This sense of shared identity is strong, even after generations.

What are the main reasons cited for migration from Bawean Island?

The primary drivers for migration are the lack of job opportunities and low incomes on the densely populated island. However, tradition and a desire for life experience also play significant roles, with some believing that spending years abroad is a rite of passage for men.

What language is predominantly spoken on Bawean Island?

The majority of the population speaks a Bawean dialect, which is considered a distinct dialect of the Madurese language. A variation of this dialect, known as Indonesian: boyan selat, is spoken by Baweans living abroad.

What is the main religion practiced on Bawean Island?

The predominant religion on Bawean Island is Sunni Islam. However, remnants of traditional local beliefs are also present among the population.

How are traditional dwellings on Bawean Island constructed?

Traditional Bawean homes typically feature a bamboo frame and a porch, sometimes built on low poles. The roofs are traditionally covered with palm leaves or reeds, though tiles are becoming increasingly common.

What are the characteristics of traditional Bawean clothing and customs?

Bawean clothing is more similar to Javanese attire than Madurese. Men wear sarongs and tunics, while women wear sarongs and shorter jackets. Malayan influences are more evident in customs, ceremonies, and folk dances than in Madurese traditions, which are less prominent on the island.

What is Roti Boyan and its significance?

Roti Boyan is a traditional local pie, typically stuffed with vegetables like potatoes. It is popular not only on Bawean but also in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, where it is known by its Bawean name.

What is the area of Bawean Island?

Bawean Island has a total area of 197.42 square kilometers (76.22 square miles).

Bawean Wiki: Bawean: An Island's Tapestry of Culture and Nature

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Island Overview

Location

Bawean is an Indonesian island situated approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) north of Surabaya, within the Java Sea. It is administratively part of the Gresik Regency in East Java province.

Topography

The island is characterized by a central extinct volcano, reaching an elevation of 655 meters (2,149 feet). Its nearly circular shape spans 11 to 18 kilometers in diameter, circumnavigated by a single narrow road.

Unique Demographics

Historically, Bawean is known as the "Island of Women" due to significant male out-migration for work. This results in a female majority among the resident population, a phenomenon studied extensively.

Etymology

Origin of the Name

The name "Bawean" is believed to derive from the Kawi (or Sanskrit) phrase meaning "having the sunlight." Legend suggests Javanese sailors named it upon seeing a guiding light after navigating through mist.

Linguistic Variations

Historically known as "Lubok" during Dutch colonization, the name Bawean persisted. The island and its inhabitants are also referred to as "Boyan" and "Boyanese," particularly in Malaysia and Singapore, reflecting historical migration patterns.

Historical Context

Early Settlements

Permanent settlements date to the 15th century, with early records associating Bawean with Muslim preachers and the eventual conversion of inhabitants to Islam. The island served as a resting point for ships navigating the Java Sea.

Colonial Era & WWII

Under Dutch control from 1743, Bawean was primarily an economic outpost. During World War II, the island became a site for significant naval battles, including the Second Battle of the Java Sea, which effectively ended Allied resistance in the region.

Post-Independence

Following Indonesia's independence, Bawean transitioned from Dutch administration to becoming an integral part of the Republic of Indonesia in 1950. It was incorporated into the Gresik Regency in 1975.

Geographical Features

Coastal & Marine Environment

Bawean's shores are irregular, featuring numerous small bays. The surrounding waters are dotted with small sandy islets (noko), rocks, and coral reefs. Several inhabited satellite islands lie offshore.

Inland Terrain

The island's interior is predominantly hilly, often referred to as the "island of 99 hills." The highest point is Gunung Tinggi at 655 meters. Caldera lakes, such as the deep Lake Kastoba, and several rivers and waterfalls characterize the landscape.

Climate & Geology

Bawean experiences a tropical monsoonal climate, slightly less humid than surrounding areas, with minimal temperature fluctuations. The island's geology is primarily volcanic, with igneous rocks dominating the surface, interspersed with limestone and sandstone deposits.

Flora and Fauna

Endemic Wildlife

The island's most unique inhabitant is the Bawean deer (Axis kuhlii), also known as Kuhl's deer or the Bawean hog deer. Critically endangered, this species is endemic to Bawean and is a protected symbol of the island.

Vegetation

Historically dense rainforest has diminished due to human activity, with teak plantations now covering a significant portion of the island. The remaining jungles feature dense undergrowth, ferns, bryophytes, and orchids. Mangrove species are found in coastal areas.

Diverse Fauna

Beyond the endemic deer, Bawean hosts various mammals like crab-eating macaques and Sunda porcupines. Birdlife is abundant, and reptiles include monitor lizards, pythons, and occasionally saltwater crocodiles near coastal areas.

Administration

Administrative Divisions

Bawean is divided into two districts: Sangkapura, located on the southern coast and centered around its namesake town, and Tambak, covering the northern part of the island. These districts encompass numerous villages and small offshore islands.

Population Distribution

Sangkapura District houses the majority of the island's population. Population figures, including estimates for mid-2024, indicate a total population of over 85,000 residents, with a significant portion residing in Sangkapura town.

Economy & Society

Remittances and Livelihoods

The primary economic driver for many Bawean families is the income earned by relatives working abroad, particularly in Malaysia and Singapore. Local activities include agriculture (rice, maize), fishing, and teak cultivation.

Migration and Tradition

Male out-migration is a deeply ingrained tradition, often seen as a rite of passage. This migration, driven by limited local employment opportunities, significantly shapes the island's social structure and demographics.

Resource Extraction

Since the early 2000s, onyx mining by Taiwanese companies has become a notable economic activity. Additionally, offshore oil and gas fields contribute significantly to Indonesia's energy sector.

Culture & Language

Linguistic Heritage

The predominant language is a Bawean dialect, considered a distinct variant of the Madurese language. Many inhabitants also possess proficiency in Indonesian, the national language.

Religious Landscape

The island's population predominantly adheres to Sunni Islam, though traditional local beliefs persist alongside Islamic practices. Historical figures like Sheik Maulana Umar Mas'ud are revered, attracting Muslim pilgrims.

Lifestyle & Cuisine

Traditional Dwellings

Bawean homes share similarities with Madurese architecture, featuring bamboo frames and tiled roofs, often elevated on low poles. The local attire reflects Javanese influences, with sarongs and tunics being common.

Culinary Traditions

The island's cuisine is a blend of influences from its diverse ethnic groups. A popular local specialty is "roti Boyan," a stuffed pie enjoyed across Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore.

Sports and Recreation

Bawean boasts strong athletic traditions, particularly in table tennis and sepak takraw. Volleyball has also gained significant popularity, with numerous registered teams across the island.

Tourism Potential

Natural Attractions

Bawean offers attractions such as Lake Kastoba, hot springs, waterfalls, caves, and coastal beaches with coral reefs. These natural assets present significant tourism potential.

Development Challenges

Despite its natural beauty, tourism development is hindered by underdeveloped infrastructure and the island's remoteness. Some locals also hold traditional views regarding access to certain sites like Lake Kastoba.

Transportation Hub

Bawean Airport

Bawean Airport (Harun Thohir Airport) features a runway extended to 1,200 meters, capable of accommodating 50-seater aircraft. Operations officially commenced in January 2016, enhancing connectivity.

Demographic Profile

Population Trends

The island's population grew from approximately 30,000 in the mid-20th century to over 85,000 by mid-2024. High migration rates, particularly of males seeking work abroad, significantly influence the resident population figures.

Ethnic Composition

The population is a blend of various ethnic groups, including Madurese, Javanese, Bugis, and Malay settlers. Over time, a distinct Bawean identity has emerged, particularly among those living abroad.

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References

Badan Pusat Statistik, Jakarta, 28 February 2025, Kabupaten Gresik Dalam Angka 2025 (Katalog-BPS 1102001.3525)

Badan Pusat Statistik, Jakarta, 28 February 2024, Kabupaten Gresik Dalam Angka 2024 (Katalog-BPS 1102001.3525)

A full list of references for this article are available at the Bawean Wikipedia page

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This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on publicly available data and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date. It is crucial to consult official sources and expert advice for critical decisions.

This is not professional advice. Information provided herein should not substitute for professional consultation regarding geography, history, culture, or any other specialized field. Always seek the advice of qualified professionals for specific needs.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.

Bawean: An Island's Tapestry

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Island Overview ℹ️

📍 Location

🌋 Topography

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Unique Demographics

Etymology 📜

☀️ Origin of the Name

🗣️ Linguistic Variations

Historical Context ⏳

🏛️ Early Settlements

⚔️ Colonial Era & WWII

🇮🇩 Post-Independence

Geographical Features 🌍

🌊 Coastal & Marine Environment

⛰️ Inland Terrain

🌡️ Climate & Geology

Flora and Fauna 🌿

🦌 Endemic Wildlife

🌳 Vegetation

🐊 Diverse Fauna

Administration 🏛️

🗺️ Administrative Divisions

📊 Population Distribution

Economy & Society 💰

💸 Remittances and Livelihoods

👷 Migration and Tradition

⛏️ Resource Extraction

Culture & Language 🗣️

💬 Linguistic Heritage

☪️ Religious Landscape

Lifestyle & Cuisine 🍽️

🏠 Traditional Dwellings

🥟 Culinary Traditions

🏆 Sports and Recreation

Tourism Potential 🏞️

🏖️ Natural Attractions

🚧 Development Challenges

Transportation Hub ✈️

🛫 Bawean Airport

Demographic Profile 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

📈 Population Trends

🌐 Ethnic Composition

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Island Overview

Location

Topography

Unique Demographics

Etymology

Origin of the Name

Linguistic Variations

Historical Context

Early Settlements

Colonial Era & WWII

Post-Independence

Geographical Features

Coastal & Marine Environment

Inland Terrain

Climate & Geology

Flora and Fauna

Endemic Wildlife

Vegetation

Diverse Fauna

Administration

Administrative Divisions

Population Distribution

Economy & Society

Remittances and Livelihoods

Migration and Tradition

Resource Extraction

Culture & Language

Linguistic Heritage

Religious Landscape

Lifestyle & Cuisine

Traditional Dwellings

Culinary Traditions

Sports and Recreation

Tourism Potential

Natural Attractions

Development Challenges

Transportation Hub

Bawean Airport

Demographic Profile

Population Trends

Ethnic Composition

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice