Malacca Chief Minister Idris Haron has refuted claims that China is trying to colonise the state amid major investments from the country.

Idris said if that was China's purpose, Malacca would have been colonised long ago due to the historical relationship between the two regions.

"If there are accusations such as those claiming that investors from China want to colonise Malacca, tell them that if China wanted to colonise Malacca, they would have done it 600 years ago.

"Admiral Cheng Ho came with more than 1,000 ships and 120,000 soldiers. He even protected Malacca against attacks from Siam and Majapahit," he said during the Malacca BN Chinese New Year open house in Alor Gajah last night.

Idris also said Malacca was a model for racial unity in the country.

"Today, Chinese, Indian, Malays and various races live in unity, finding common ground and overcoming their differences," he said.

Malacca has in recent years seen an influx of investment from China, including the RM43 billion Malacca Gateway.

The 609-acre port project will also comprise hotels, residential units, several resorts, a marina, theme park and other components.

The project is a joint venture between the state's KAJ Development Sdn Bhd and China's PowerChina International, Yantian Port Group and Rizhao Port Group.