The Chettys are believed to have been present in the Malay Peninsula as early as the 16th century in the history of the Malacca Empire, according to Portuguese writings, when they arrived on Malacca's shores. The community, known as Chetty or Chitty in Malacca, had its own distinctive way of life, integrating with the local population, establishing places of worship, and holding significant positions in the Sultanate.