Early Modern History/ Contents

The role of large-scale Western enterprise

Loh Wei Leng

During the l9th century, Western nations competed to expand sources of supply of industrial raw materials as well as markets for their manufactures. Britain was the leading capital exporting country in the world. In the Malay Peninsula, it was both the largest foreign investor and a significant trading partner as Britain was both a supplier of imports and a market for tropical primary commodities. However, the Western nations had to compete with Asian mercantile communities (Indian, Arab, Chinese) who had long been established in the region.

  • Information in the full article includes
  • Phases of economic activity
  • The agency houses
  • Banks
  • The role of Western enterprise
Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation, Penang c. 1900

Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation in Penang, c. 1900. Originally established to cater to foreigners in the Malay Peninsula, it now has a strong presence in domestic banking.