Malaysia's history has been one of continual interaction
with foreign powers & influence because of it location 
between the Indian Ocean & the South China Sea which allows
it to become meeting place for traders & travellers.

Archaeological findings at Bujang Valley in the state of 
Kedah furnishes evidences of a Hindu-Buddhist civilisation 
that dated back to 300AD. It was an important centre of trade 
& commerce till the 13th century when Malacca attracted 
colonial powers.

By 1511, Malacca fell to the Portuguese, the in 1641, the 
Dutch took over & finally the British in 1815.

The British consolidated their hold on Malayan states 
following Francis Light's arrival in Penang in 1786.

Sarawak was ruled by a British adventurer, James Brooke 
since 1841. In 1888, Sarawak & North Borneo (Sabah) became
British protectorates.

In 1930s, the 1st stirring of Malayan nationalism were felt.
On 31st August 1957, the Federation of Malaya gained the
independence.

In 1963, Malaysia was formed.