• Exhaustively researched and the arguments presented are supported by a close study of archival documents that will make new material available to other scholars (external reviewer).

• A genuine pioneering study of Malaysian urban history, and breaks much new ground. At its best it is fine grained social history of which we have seen far too little in Southeast Asia (external reviewer).

This study compares Melaka and Penang in the context of overall trends: policy, geographical position, nature and direction of trade; and morphology and society and how these factors were influenced by trade and policies. Conclusions are drawn concerning where and how Melaka and Penang fit in the urban traditions of Southeast Asia and the significance of the fact that the period under study coincided with the shift from the height of the "Age of Commerce" towards the period of heightened imperialist activities.

Contents
Introduction
The Straits of Melaka and the Trading World
Geography and Trade of Melaka 1780-1830
Geography and Trade of Penang 1786-1830
Trade in the Straits: Melaka and Penang 1780-1830
Urban Traditions, Geography and Morphology
Population Growth in Melaka and Penang 1780-1830
Dutch Urban Administration in Melaka
British Urban Administration of Penang
Melaka Society 1780-1830
Penang: A Port-town of Migrants 1786-1830
Conclusion
Bibliography
Index