Malacca, known as Melaka in Malay, holds the distinction of being the oldest city in Malaysia, situated on the strategic Straits of Malacca. Founded around 1400 by a Sumatran prince, it quickly became a prominent entrepôt in the Malacca Sultanate era, drawing traders from across the world. Its rich history is recognized by UNESCO, which has listed Malacca alongside George Town as a World Heritage site, celebrating the cities' 500 years of cultural and trade exchanges between East and West.