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Of
all the Malaysian states, Melaka has a
charm and character of its own. Its early
history as an important port city brought
traders from all over the world to its
shores. Their varied cultures played an
important role in shaping the present
day customs and practices of Melakans
as a whole. Melaka is an excellent example
of how historical events influence the
growth and development of the culture
of a people. This intermingling of cultures
also has served to make Melakans more
tolerant and understanding - traits which
have played a major role in maintaining
the peaceful and harmonious relationship
between the major ethnic groups in the
state today. Melaka's early success and
its colonial past played an important
role in the evolvement of the Baba and
Nyonyas, the Portuguese/Dutch/English
Eurasians and the Chitties. While the
descendants of these communities have
spread to other parts of Malaysia, it
is here in Melaka that it all began.
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