Fortunes of Melaka

Melaka was one of the most important entrepôts in the world in the 15th century that eventually attracted colonial powers to come and conquer the Malay peninsular. Learn how the Melaka sultanate hegemonised their rule for more than 100 years, why they adopted Islamic faith, and what led to their dramatic downfall into the hands of the Portuguese. We speak with Barbara Andaya, a Professor of the Asian Studies Program at the University of Hawaii. She is a leading history scholar on Malaysia, and co-author of A History of Malaysia. Andaya spoke at the Melaka In Fact conference.

 

Image: Antique map of the Straits of Malacca, early 1700, from the collection of Julian Candiah