| The history of ancient Malaysia has been a source of curiosity to historians and archaeologists across the world. A skull dating 35000BC, found in the Niah Caves in Sarawak, is the oldest known evidence of human habitation in Malaysia. Negrito Aborigines are believed to be one of the earliest inhabitants of the Malay Peninsula. Chinese immigrants, called the Proto-Malays, came to Malaysia about 2500BC and another group called Deutero-Malays, comprising Proto-Malays, Indians, Chinese, Siamese and Arabs, were the ancestors of the Malays.
Indians came to Malaysia in 100 BC in search of an extremely rich mythical land called Savarnadvipa and introduced Hinduism and Buddhism in the country. Malacca, founded in the 15th century, became the most influential port in Southeast Asia within 50 years. Arab traders coming to Malaysia brought Islam to the nation. A trade rivalry among European powers led to a search for open trade routes to India and the Far East.
Golden age of Malacca ended and the colonial era began in Malaysia with the arrival of the Portuguese to Malacca's harbor in 1511. Portuguese, Dutch and British fought for the territory and finally Penang, Malacca and Singapore became colonies of Britain and were known as Straits Settlements. After a long struggle Malaya gained independence from British rule in 1957.
Malaysia acquired its present name in 1961 when Malaya, Singapore, Sarawak and Sabah formed a federal union. Due to predominance of Malays in the country special privileges were given to them. But the native Chinese opposed this attitude of the Government and formed an opposition party. The Malaysian economy collapsed severely after the outbreak of an emergency following riots in the capital city. However, when you visit Malaysia now you will be surprised to see its tremendous progress and will notice almost no trace of racial discrimination in the country.
Singapore Thailand Malaysia offers detailed information on Malaysian history and other aspects of travel in Malaysia and also provides Malaysia tour packages.
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