In 1641 the VOC ordered an exploration of Madagascar and the
surrounding islands, whereby setting up standards would claim
them for the Company. A small base was established in the Bay of
Antogil at the north east coast. The local ruler agreed to
submit to the sovereignty of the Dutch Republic and to supply
slaves. Trading posts were also set up in other places such as
Fombetokke. However, the results were disappointing and in 1646
the VOC administrators in Batavia decided to withdraw their
people from the island.