The comparison of the archaeological records of Java and Sumatra allows to present a preliminary assessment defining future researches to be implemented in order to address major questions such as the origin of the " Austronesians". The geographical fates of both islands are different for modern humans and obviously played an important role, shared or separated, in the history and prehistory of Indonesia. From 20 000 to 5 000 BP, Java is marked by a technical heterogeneity in produced stone tools. In the meantime, Sumatra shows more homogenous technical choices, with a unifacial pebble shaping which still belongs to the Hoabinhian tradition. Recent palaeoanthropological data from Java indicate a large variability in funerary practices as well. Different types of burials, partial cremations and other mortuary practices are documented diachronically and synchronically. Consistent data related to funerary practices are still needed regarding Sumatra.