Melaka

Melaka (pop. 88,100), Malaysian port city. Located on the strategic Strait of Malacca, Melaka (formerly Malacca) is the capital of the state of the same name. In the 15th century, it was one of the most important ports in Southeast Asia and was captured by Portugal (1511), the Netherlands (1641), and Great Britain (1795). Melaka remained in British hands until Malaysia was granted independence (1957) as the Federation of Malaya.

See also: Malaysia.