Later, it fell under the influence of the Thais until the 15th Century when the rise of Melaka led to the Islamization of the area. The Portuguese later attacked Kedah in the 17th Century. The British held power in the 18th Century and the Siamese again in the 19th Century. Kedah remained under the Siamese control until early 20th Century when they were passed to the British. It finally became part of the Federation of Malaya in 1948.
Roads are accessible from major towns and cities in the Peninsula.
It is a 7-8 hour drive from Kuala Lumpur. From major towns, such as Kuala Lumpur and Penang, air-conditioned express buses are also available. They service almost all towns in Kedah. From Alor Setar, the capital city of Kedah, one can even take the bus up to the border of Thailand. Malaysia Airlines flies daily to and from Alor Setar from Kuala Lumpur via either Penang or Kota Bharu.