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On this map of Sumatra, the west coast mountain ranges contrast with the rivers to the east. An inset map of Singapore focuses on jungles along the coasts, and features bathymetry (sea depth) around the south coast and along the Singapore Strait.

Maritime routes had to be adjusted in response to the changing monsoon seasons, as is seen on this late 18th century map of the Indian Ocean. Drawings of the heads of children blowing—called ‘wind-heads’—are used to indicate wind direction.

This mid-18th century maritime map charts the seas between Peninsula Malaysia and Sumatra, including Singapore—named ‘Po. Panjang’—with the old and new Straits of Singapore marked. The numbers indicate sea depth (bathymetry).