Malaysia is home to many cultures and ethnicities; an amalgamation of Malays, Indians, Chinese, and other ethnic groups. As such Malaysian cuisine, culture, traditions and all other aspects of life have been mixed into a perfect multi-cultural melting pot.
The History of Malaysia
Malaysia belonged to the Malay kingdoms before coming under the British Empire in the 18th century. Originally known as Malaya, the states were restructured a few times and in 1963 the joining of Sabah, Sarawak, and Singapore with Malaya formed Malaysia as we know today.
The First Settlers
Settlements in Malaysia may have been as far back as 40, 000 years ago by a people known as negritos. The ownership of Malaysian lands passed through many ethnicities and dynasties all through its history. The first independent state was created by Parameswara, a prince, in the 15th century.
The British Invasion
The British came to Malaysia in 1786 with the Sultan of Kedah leasing Penang to the East India Company. Over a period of 40 years, the British took control of not only Penang but Malacca, Singapore, and Labuan. They named the colony the Strait Settlements. By the 20th century, the federated and unfederated states of Malaysia all had British advisors teaching them how to rule.
The Japanese Invasion
The Japanese invasion happened over three years during the second world war. Despite the British plans for the settlements, ethnic Malays rebelled against the weakening of Malay’s ruling body and the granting of citizenship to ethnic Chinese. With the establishment of the Malayan Union in 1946, Britain’s power was weakened and finally extinguished.
Independence
Malaysia has recorded the best economic growth of a country in Asia post-independence. You can witness this for yourself by staying at Silka Hotels or others in Malaysia considered some of the best hotels in Asia.
Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+
