History of the Malaysian seas
Strategically located and richly endowed, the seas around Malaysia have long shaped its development. Linking the Indian and Pacific oceans, and having the sheltered coast of the Strait of Melaka providing the necessary stopping points in the days of sail, were great natural advantages. Since prehistoric times, these waters have acted as a major sea crossing, and later they were at the heart of an early international trading system. Down the centuries, products for the world's markets have passed through Malaysian waters. This has brought traders and travellers, and influenced early state formation and culture.
- Information in the full article includes
- Ancient trade
- The turn of the first millennium
- The rise and fall of Melaka
- Colonial powers
- The modern era
