Pantan Perak Negeri-Negeri Selat

Introduction

• Study of three regions: Pulau Pinang, Melaka, Singapore
• Combined, known as Negeri-Negeri Selat

British Expansion

• Expansion in Pulau Pinang, Singapore, Melaka led by the British
• Key question: Why did the British want Pulau Pinang?

Pulau Pinang

1. Strategic position

   • Collection center for goods (e.g., tea, silk, porcelain, and especially gold and silver)
   • Port for ship repair and supply stopovers
   • Military depot to protect India from French threats

2. British Population and Challenges in Pulau Pinang

   • Challenges in Kedah (Pulau Pinang under Kedah)
   • Three issues in Kedah:
     • Succession disputes
     • Threats from Siam
     • Misleading promises by Francis Light

Penang and Seberang Perai

• Seberang Perai: Wanted for defense and agricultural supply
• Acquired through agreements with Sultan of Kedah

Importance of Singapore

• Needed a strategic port
• Singapore as an economic hub
• One issue: Succession dispute in Johor (under which Singapore was)

Malacca

• Acquired through exchange with the Dutch (Perjanjian London)
• Avoid opening new settlements in rival territories

Formation of Negeri-Negeri Selat

• Combined administration for efficiency and cost-saving
• Key Benefits for British:
  • Control over the entire Melaka Strait
  • Easier trade with China
  • Gateway for foreign laborers, leading to multiracial society

Administration

• Initially under the control of the British in India
• Later administration moved to London due to dissatisfaction and inefficiencies
• New Administration Model:
  • Governor oversees
  • Resident Consulars in each state
  • Two councils: Executive for management, Legislative for making laws

Conclusion

• Pulau Pinang, Melaka, Singapore combined for unified governance
• British strategic and economic interests served by these expansions and consolidations