Hey there!
Here is your answer:
<u><em>The proper answer to this question is "Britain". </em></u>
Reason:
<u><em>In that time (1990's) Southeast Asia was ruled by Britain during that time.</em></u>
If you need anymore help feel free to ask me!
Hope this helps!
~Nonportrit
Because they can get water as well as ship goods in and out. also it helps to grow crops and build homes around a stable community <span />
More trade routes opened up along with parts of europe getting asian ideas and vise versa