Page 147 - Dutch Ships in Tropical Waters
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Table .: A representation of the activities of the various types of VOC vessels in the separate destina- tions in the region Sumatra - (areas in the first row of the table: . Atjeh, Nicobar islands, . Sumatra westcoast, . Sumatra southeast) Strait of Malacca () This region includes modern Malaysia and Singapore. All the waters in this region were more or less sheltered. Some areas of the Strait of Malacca were cluttered with small islands that required manoeuvrable and shallow draught vessels if the VOC patrolled in these areas. The strategic value of Malacca was high. The strait was an important connection between the Far East and the Indonesian Archipelago and the Indian Ocean. Sunda Strait, the second important connection was already under the control of the VOC. Controlling this important seaway was an important strategic goal. Right from the start of Dutch shipping in Asia the Strait of Malacca was an important military destination. To begin with the military confrontation was on the level of big ships. In later years the character changed to patrol activities aimed at disrupting the traffic and capturing smaller vessels. After , when control of Malacca was taken from the Portuguese, the position was safeguarded by the patrol of small, swift sailing and well- armed vessels. The requirements for suitable vessels for this important task were thus changing over time. Up to the military component of the fleet was the most important. This is reflected in Table - that shows a big component of the small yachts of rate . These swift sailing fregatten were ideal for chasing passing traffic. The middle size yachts of rate also took part in the blockade. As was the case in the blockade of Goa the ships taking part in action around Malac- ca could be used for trade after they had finished their task. After the military component of the fleet became less prominent and one can see a growth in cargo vessels such as the flute. Given the central role of Malacca in the whole traffic network it is to be expected that the database will reveal all types of vessels including many cargo carriers. Many of these vessels are recorded on their stopover for transhipment. Before , the cargo from this area consisted mainly of looted goods. More regular merchandise following the capture of Malacca was pepper and pewter. Like Jambi, Malacca was brought Dutch Ships in Tropical Waters
