The spelling of the word "Madoera" is derived from the Dutch colonial name for the Indonesian island Madura. The pronunciation of Madoera is [mɑdoːˈra] in IPA phonetic transcription, with stress on the second syllable. The vowel sound in the first syllable is similar to the English "ah" sound, while the second syllable has a long "o" sound. The spelling of the word may differ based on the language, but the correct pronunciation remains the same.
Madoera refers to the island of Madura, which is located in the northeastern region of the Indonesian archipelago. It spans an area of approximately 5,170 square kilometers and is situated between the Java Sea to the west and Bali Strait to the east. Madura Island is administratively part of the East Java province and is separated from Java Island by the narrow Strait of Madura.
The geography of Madura is characterized by a flat and arid landscape, with its northern part consisting of extensive saltwater swamps known as the "bulus" that provide fertile fishing grounds. The island is home to a population primarily occupied in agriculture, fishing, and trading activities. The people of Madura, known as the Madurese, have their own distinct culture and language.
Madoera is renowned for its traditional crafts, particularly the production of exquisite batik fabrics and Madura-style wooden carvings. The island is also famous for its unique bull races, locally known as "karapan sapi," which are a traditional form of entertainment and are organized to celebrate local festivals and ceremonies.
In recent years, Madura Island has experienced significant infrastructure development, including the construction of the Suramadu Bridge, connecting it to Java Island, thus boosting economic activities and facilitating easier access for both residents and tourists.
The word "Madoera" is derived from the Indonesian island of "Madura". The term "Madura" comes from the Sanskrit word "Madhara", which means "honey" or "sweets". This name was given to the island due to its fertile soil and agricultural abundance. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation evolved to "Madura" and then further altered to "Madoera" when it was adopted by the Dutch during their colonial rule in Indonesia.