In order to Build, or make the .DEB package for Debian sarge - the following are required to specifically make java packages: apt-get install fakeroot java-package
Fakeroot allows a “non root” user compile the .deb package. This makes sure that making the package doesnt write file to /etc or where ever else it shouldnt.
Java-package is specifically for building java .deb packages.
Note: I had difficulty installing java-package and had to get it manually from debian-packages!!
fakeroot make-jpkg jrepackage_downloaded_from_SUN.bin
Run the above as NON ROOT!! You will have to answer some basic questions - agreeing with the Terms and Conditions.
It should land out a .deb package.
As root: dpkg -i sun-_package_outputted.deb
This should install it ok. It but the files in /usr/lib/j2sdk1.5-sun/
I symlinked java into /usr/bin/java.
That should be it. Other files may have to be symlinked also.
See for More info: http://www.debian-administration.org/articles/142