It is traditionally believed that the history of Malaysia began with the founding of Melaka in 1400 by Parameswara, a Sumatran prince. Thereafter, the state flourished under the Melaka Sultanate and eventually became the region's largest emporium, attracting traders from as far as China, India, Arabia and Europe. In the light of its rich historical past, Melaka has been officially declared the "Historical City of Malaysia.