The architectural styles of the different colonial powers are used in many buildings built between 1511 and 1957.

Portuguese
The most notable example of Portuguese architecture in Malaysia is the A'Famosa fort in Melaka, which was built by Alfonso d'Albuquerque in 1511. Nearly annihilated by the Dutch, only a small part of the fortification is still on the hill overlooking the Melaka town, old port and the Straits of Melaka.

Dutch
Located in Melaka Town, the Stadhuys with its heavy wooden doors, thick red walls and wrought-iron hinges is the most imposing relic of the Dutch period in Melaka. It is a fine example of Dutch masonry and woodworking skills. Built between 1641 and 1660 it is believed to be the oldest building in the East.

British
Among the most significant landmarks built by the British is the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, which grandly overlooks the Merdeka Square. This Moorish beauty, completed in 1897, served as the Colonial Secretariat offices during the British administration.

re-Merdeka or pre-independence shophouses still emanate the characteristic charm of their earlier days. A display of English ingenuity is the 'five-foot-way' or covered sidewalk designed to shield pedestrians from the heat and rain.

arly traders from all over the world influenced Malaysian batik and the arts and craft particular to each state. Possessing beauty and functionality, your holiday would not be complete without getting your hands on a batik sarong, bamboo blowpipe or hand crafted wooden panel!.

If you are looking for that special, highly artistic piece of Malaysian handicraft to take home with you as a memento, you would be spoilt for choice in Malaysia! From the ever-popular batik to the fabled kris (traditional Malay dagger) to the majestic hand-carved wooden panel, Malaysia’s arts and crafts are as rich in history as the country itself. They are also of high quality and represent true value for money