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The History |
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Malaysia’s historical highlight is the establishment of the Malacca Sultanate in the 13th century. A major port-of-call
for traders from the east and west, the state’s strategic location along the bustling Straits of Malacca so intrigued
the Chinese, Arabs and Indians that they soon made the port their new point of trade. Even then, the channel was
the most ideal location because it was sheltered from strong monsoon winds and could be docked and used all year
round.
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In retrospect, the strong trading links with China and India date back to the first century, BC. Although the earliest
known pioneers were the indigenous Orang Asli, early Hindu and Buddhist influences is evident through historical and
archaeological findings that are now housed in various museums around the country. They can also be traced to
temple sites like Bujang Valley and the Merbok Estuary in northern Malaysia. |
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Like many Southeast Asian countries, Malaysia had its fair share of conquerors and occupiers throughout its history
up to the late 1950s. As early as 1511, the Portuguese – acutely aware of the potential of the Straits of Malacca –
sailed into its harbour and were the first to forcibly conquer the land. Their strong influence is evident to this day, as
is the Dutch and English effect almost throughout the country. |
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As the longest rulers, the British consolidated the Malay states in the Peninsula as well as Sabah and Sarawak as the
Straits Settlement. After World War II and at the end of the Japanese Occupation in the 1940s, there was a
resurgence of Malayan nationalism, and this eventually led to the declaration of Independence from the British
Empire in August 1957. |
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