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Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia Interactivity

Southeast Asia contains eleven independent nations. Some of these nations are located on the mainland. Others span multiple islands. These countries share a lot of similarities; however, the region is culturally diverse. There is also variation in levels of economic development. In this interactivity, you will learn about some of the major countries of Southeast Asia. Click the player to begin.

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Cultural Influences of Southeast Asia

Cultural Influences of Southeast Asia Interactivity

Historically, Southeast Asia has been an important trade route between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Interactions with civilizations from China, India, and Europe have shaped the cultural landscape. This has helped create a unique and culturally diverse region. In this interactivity, you will learn about the cultural influence of Southeast Asia. Click the player to begin.

View a printable version of this interactivity or an ADA compliant transcript.

Batik

Batik is a decorative fabric that has a unique dying process. Batik is made by applying wax to a piece of cloth, usually cotton. The cloth is then soaked in a colored dye. The areas of the cloth that are covered in wax resist the dye. To remove the wax, the dyed cloth is boiled. After it dries, a new layer of wax is applied and it is dyed with a new color. Using this process, intricate and colorful designs can be created one color at a time. Batik is made in several different countries, including Malaysia, India, and China; however, batik originally comes from Indonesia. This art form is an important cultural tradition in Indonesia. There are many different styles of batik. For instance, some use decorative designs while others incorporate scripture from the Quran.

Economic Characteristics of Southeast Asia

Commericial port in Singapore

Most countries in Southeast Asia have developing economies. However, individual economies vary across the region. For instance, in Myanmar (Burma), economic development is low. Most of the population live in rural communities and practices subsistence agriculture. In contrast, Singapore has one of the highest per capita GDP rates in the world. The country is highly urbanized and has a large service industry.

Several nations in the region have large secondary sectors. These countries manufacture a variety of goods. For example, Cambodia is a major manufacturer of textile, clothing, and footwear. These goods account for more than 80% of the country’s exports. Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore all have high-tech manufacturing industries. They produce and export goods like computers, machines, and electronics.

Terraced rice fields in Vietnam

Agriculture is important in most countries, particularly those that are less developed. Arable land is abundant, and the climate is perfect for growing rice, tropical fruit, and tea. Agricultural terracing is a common practice. Fishing is another important industry to the region. In more developed countries, these agricultural goods are produced for the population rather than exported.

There has been rapid growth across Southeast Asia in recent years. This development has steadily increased the standard of living for people in the region. This has also increased population growth. However, this rapid development can potentially hurt the environment. For instance, deforestation is a serious concern in Malaysia. Most forests in the country have been cut down for timber or farmland. The forests that remain are on nationally protected lands. Deforestation can cause severe erosion and flooding.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)

ASEAN is an economic and political alliance of ten countries in Southeast Asia. It was established in 1967. The organization promotes economic growth and cultural development. It also helps maintain peace and stability in Southeast Asia. Members include Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, and the Philippines.

ASEAN has helped fuel the economic development of its member nations. Collectively, these countries are able to play a major role in the global economy. Members also have access to larger markets. This is because the combined population of the ASEAN nations is larger than the United States and the EU.

Southeast Asia Review

Southeast Asia Review Interactivity

Now that you have learned about the major regions, cultural influences, and economic characteristics of Southeast Asia, review your knowledge in this interactivity. Click the player to get started.