Melaka & Interesting Place

Melaka

Melaka is located on the Western Coast of Peninsular Malaysia facing the Straits of Melaka, about 147 kilometres from Kuala Lumpur and 245 kilometres from Singapore. Melaka is actually found sandwiched between the states of Negeri Sembilan and Johor. It can be reached by excellent roads from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Internally it is serviced by a very good network of roads leading to all the historical places of interest. It covers an area of 658 square kilometres and is divided into three districts namely Alor Gajah, Melaka Tengah and Jasin.

Melaka was founded by Parameswara (or Raja Iskandar) the last Malay ruler of Temasik (ancient Singapore) in 1396 when he and his followers retreated up the straits to Muar, then to Sungai Ujung before settling at Bertam near the estuary of Melaka River.

Finding the place of strategic location, he decided to make a permanent settlement there, naming it "Melaka" after the name of the tree he leaned against.

The Melaka Sultanate occupies a special position in the history of Malaysia. Its inauguration marked the beginning of the emergence of a new Malay empire. The birthplace of the Malay Sultanates and Malaysia's historic city, Melaka provided the stage on which the Portuguese, Dutch and English played out their roles in shaping the history.

Melaka emerged as a strong maritime trading state under the industrious Parameswara and his chiefs. Melaka also began to be noticed by Muslim traders from West Asia and India, who until that period, had been concentrating their activities in Aru, Pedir and Pasai en-route to the East, especially China. Because of its strategic location straddling the Straits of Melaka, it thrived as a port-of-call and a centre of entrepot trade with ships and merchants from China, Japan, India, Arab and South Africa.

In 1511, it fell to the hands of the Portuguese, followed by the Dutch in 1641 after a fierce battle. In 1795, Melaka was given to the British to prevent it falling to the French when the Netherlands was captured during the Napoleonic Wars. It was returned to the Dutch in 1818 under the treaty of Vienna but was later exchanged by the British for Bangkahulu, Sumatra. From 1826 onwards, the British East India Company along with Singapore and Penang governed it, under the Straits Settlement administration in Calcutta.

The Dutch, who held Melaka for over a century, left many fine buildings marking their heritage. The most imposing relic of the Dutch period is the Stadthuys, a strikingly pink town hall which is today the oldest Dutch building in the Far East. Right next to it stands the bright red Christ Church, constructed with pink bricks imported from Holland and covered with local red lacerite. Today, these buildings together with the ruins of the Portuguese built A Famosa and St. Paul's Church are the most prominent reminders of the Europeans' presence in Melaka.

After World War II, anti-colonial sentiment bred in the country among the nationalists, the result of which was the proclamation of Independence by Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra, Malaysia's first Prime Minister, at the Padang Pahlawan (Warrior's Field) at Bandar Hilir, Melaka on 20 February 1956.

A’Famosa

A Famosa, or "The Famous" in Portuguese, is among the oldest surviving European architectural remains in Asia. Once part of a mighty fortress, this tiny gate (called the Porta de Santiago) is all that is left of a once-mighty fortress. In 1511 a Portuguese fleet arrived under the command of Alfonso de Albuquerque. His forces attacked and successfully defeated the armies of the native Sultanate. Moving quickly to consolidate his gains, Albuquerque had the fortress built around a natural hill near the sea. Albuquerque believed that Melaka would become an important port linking Portugal to the spice trade from China. At his time other Portuguese were establishing outposts in such places as Macau, China and Goa, India in order to create a string of friendly ports for ships heading to China and returning home to Portugal.

A Famosa The fortress once consisted of long ramparts and four major towers. One was a four-story keep, while the others held an ammunition’s storage room, the residence of the captain, and an officers' quarters. As the plan below shows, most of the village clustered in town houses inside the fortress walls. As Melaka's population expanded it outgrew the original fort and extensions were added around 1586. The fort changed hands in 1641 when the Dutch successfully drove the Portuguese out of Melaka. The Dutch renovated the gate in 1670, which explains the logo "ANNO 1670" inscribed on the gate's arch. Above the arch is a bas-relief logo of the Dutch East India Company.

The fortress changed hands again in the early 19th century when the Dutch handed it over to the British to prevent it from falling into the hands of Napoleon's expansionist France. The English were wary of maintaining the fortification and ordered its destruction in 1806. The fort was almost totally demolished but for the timely intervention of Sir Stanford Raffles, the founder of Singapore, who happened to visit Melaka in 1810. Because of his passion for history this small gate was spared destruction.

A Famosa Water World

Be prepared to side into a world of fun and thrills the moment you set foot on the 20-arce A'Famosa Water World, rated as the largest water theme park in Malaysia. At the Water World, there is simply something for everyone regardless on one's age.

Over here, you can take your pick from the Wave Pool which gives a feeling of a beach away from the beach, the longest Lazy River in the world, the highly exciting High Speed Slides and many more interesting attractions such as Arabian Village, Kids' Adventure Play Pool, Sandy Area, Body Slides, Family Raft Ride, Inner Tube Slides and Tots' Activity Pool. What's more with safety measures which meet international safety standards. Water World allows one the luxury of peace of mind to truly relax and enjoy oneself.

D-Paradise Tropical Fruit World

After 5 years of research, planning and development the result is D-Paradise Tropical Fruit World and Aboriginal Native Village. The World’s largest collections of tropical, landscaped garden full of fun, adventure and discovery.

Assault your senses – see the fruit, smell them, pick and taste the wonderful varieties on offer. One of the many ‘must see’ attractions is the unique, authentic ‘live’ Aboriginal Village.

World’s Largest Collection of Pumpkin

At D-Paradise you can find here largest collection of pumpkins here. See how these Vitamin A and Potassium rich fruits are grown. Did you know the record for the largest pumpkin is 1,140 pounds?

The World’s Only Dragon Fly Sanctuary

With ancestors about 300 million years old, these impressive mid-air hovering insects are fascinating. Come into our dragon fly sanctuary and see these creatures sup-close and let them fly over you!

World’s largest cactus collection

See the largest collections of cactus right here in D-Paradise. See these fascinating thorny plants from as small as 2 inches to a few feet high.

World’s Largest Collection of Monkey Cup Pitchers

Scientists and fans from around the world come here to see the largest collections of exotic and rare Monkey Cup Pichers.

Rare Ant Eater Sanctuary

These creatures can grow up to the size of a German Shepard dog. As the name suggests, anteaters eat ants and termites in vast quantities, sometimes up to 30,000 insects in a single day. See them in action here!

Malaysian Traditional Biscuit Hut

Malaysia is known for its culinary delights. Malaysia biscuits are much sought-after items by tourists. For the first time, we bring the best biscuits from around Malaysia to one location where you can see how they are made, sample them, and buy them.

Gadek Hot Spring

Located in the District of Alor Gajah, approximately 30 km away from Malacca. It was believed that local villagers discovered the hot spring in the forest after watching some English soldiers settled around the spring. After the war, visitors from far and wide discovered that the hot spring had strong healing elements unlike many that they had encountered before. Today visitors can enjoy the spa pool or the "Soak In Pool" for those seeking therapeutic cure for skin ailments. A restaurant and playground is made available to provide additional attractions for visitors. An ideal spot for family outing.

Opening Hour: 7.00AM to 9.00PM (Daily)

Entrance Fee: MYR2.00 (Adult) MYR1.00 (Children)

Hang Jebat's Mausoleum

Hang Jebat was the champion of justice who died a tragic death. Hang Jebat was unceremoniously killed by Hang Tuah in a duel of honour that lasted 3 days and 3 nights. He ran amuck after suffering a fatal wound from Hang Tuah's dagger 'Keris Taming Sari.' In the name of justice to avenge the Sultan's hasty punishment against Hang Tuah for a crime he didn't commit. Hang Jebat was accused by Hang Tuah of 'derhaka' (contumacy). The duel between two of Malacca's most prominent knights has left apermanent question as to the moral behind Hang Jebat's aberrant reaction against authority and the conventions by which Hang Tuah exercised his conduct as a loyal subject of the Sultan.

Hang Li Poh's Well

Hang Li Poh was a Chinese princess who married the reigning Sultan Mansur Shah in mid-15th century. Diplomatic ties between China and Malacca then were reaching a high point. Upon arrival, the followers of the Chinese princess built a well in 1459 as the main source of water for much of the town. It is said that the well never dried up, not even during times of extreme drought. The Dutch enclosed the well within stout walls in 1677 to prevent it from falling into enemy hands. It has long since been converted into a wishing well.

Hang Tuah's Mausoleum

A fully decorated admiral of Melaka's naval forces who defended successfully, countless attacks against Malacca sovereignty from Siamese and Acehnese fleets, Hang Tuah's outstanding performance as a military officer made him a legend that has graced many a court and the history of Melaka.

Hang Tuah's bravery was discovered during his adolescence when he single handedly arrested a man who had ran amuck in the village called Kampong Duyong. His valiant act caught the Sultan's attention and he was called to the palace and conferred a knighthood the youngest ever to be knighted.

Hang Tuah's Well

Located in Kampong Duyong where Hang Tuah was born and spent his childhood among four of his good friends who would later become the famous knights of Melaka.

The well is said to be the abode of his soul which takes the apparition of a white crocodile. For a commoner to catch a glimpse of Hang Tuah is hardly likely. It is said that only the holy among us can ever hope to see the apparition.

Jonker Street

A definite haven for antique collectors and bargain hunters. Authentic artefacts and relics. some dating as far back as 300 years, can be found among a host of interesting collectibles, each with its own history and mystery. Jalan Hang Jebat, formerly known as Jonker Street, is known worldwide among famous antique collectors as one of the best places to hunt and bargain for antiques.

St. Francis Xavier's Church

St. Francis Xavier, the great missionary to the East, arrived in Malacca in 1545 and served the sick and the children there. He left shortly afterwards, but came back to the town in 1547, when a military victory was attributed to him. He travelled to many countries and stopped by Malacca whenever he was around the region. His fame spread far throughout Asia.

In 1574, the saint died in a ship before he could reach China, a place that he was anxious to Christianize. People found his body perfectly incorrupt, and sailed it to Malacca. People in Malacca were in deep mourning at the funeral. On the day of the funeral, the saint, after his life on earth, performed a miracle and stopped a plague that had been causing many deaths every day.

The body of St. Francis Xavier was later shipped to Goa in India, after parts of the relics were stolen or taken by different people. Today, most of his remains still rests in the Basilica of Bom-Jesus in Old Goa. He is the patron of the Indies and is called "the apostle of the East".

The present St. Francis Xavier Church was completed in 1856.

St. Paul's Church

Built by a Portuguese captain by it name of Duarte Coetho, the chapel wi turned by the Dutch into a burial ground for their noble dead and renamed it 'St. Paul's Church from the Portuguese's "Our Lady Of The Hill".

St. Francis Xavier was briefly enshrined in the open grave in 1553 before being shipped to Goa, India.

Christ Church

Situated near Jalan Laksamana and Jalan Gereja in Melaka city. This is a church built in 1753 by Dutch to commemorate a century of their rule. It is reputed as the oldest protestant church in Malaysia. It is now an Anglican Church. The building shows the ingenuity of the Dutch architectural world. The beams were constructed from cutting and carving from a single tree and have no joints. The hand-made pews dated back some 200 years. The altar is a beautiful piece of the 'Last Supper' done in glazed tiles.

Cheng Hoon Teng's Temple

Malaysia’s oldest traditional Chinese temple

Cheng Hoon Teng is a premier historical monument that has survived the ravages of time. It remains the finest of Chinese temples in Malaysia – a fact underscored by an UNESCO award for outstanding architectural restoration. The temple ranks among the most significant in Southeast Asia, being central to the spiritual aspirations of the Chinese community in historic Malacca.

This site is dedicated to the vision of Cheng Hoon Teng’s founders and the determination of its devotees to preserve their unique bastion of culture and heritage.

History

Cheng Hoon Teng was founded in the 1600s by the Chinese Capitan Tay Kie Ki alias Tay Hong Yong. During the Portuguese and Dutch eras, Capitan’s were appointed chiefs or headmen of the various ethnic communities.

In its early years, besides serving the community's religious needs, the temple also functioned as the official administrative centre and a court of justice for the Capitan’s.

Besides Capitan Tay, other prominent Capitan’s included Li Wei King, Chan Lak Kua and Chua Su Cheong. Capitan Chua was responsible for rebuilding the temple in 1801 while the Capitan’s and Teng Choos after him contributed towards the aesthetic and structural additions of the building.

In 1824, the British abolished the Capitan system and the leader of the Temple, now known as "Teng Choo", assumed some of the Capitan’s responsibilities.

Subsequently, a Board of Trustees was formed to look after the temple. The pioneers included Tun Sir Tan Cheng Lock, who also initiated the Temple’s unique incorporation under an act of Parliament {Cheng Hoon Teng Temple Incorporation Ordinance 1949}. To the locals, the temple is also known as Kebun Datok (Gods' Garden) and Kwan Yin Teng.

The Baba and Nyonya Heritage

Baba and Nyonya are Chinese of noble descendants that have adopted much of the Malay culture into theirs. They are also known as 'Straits-born Chinese' or 'Peranakans'. The public can now view the heirloom unique to this heritage at the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum (a private museum) run by the Babas and Nyonyas of Melaka at Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock.

The Stadthuys

Situated in Melaka city. The Dutch Square is famous for its red-painted buildings. It has a display of many unique Dutch mansonry and architectural skills. The Stadthuys, in the Dutch Square, was built in 1650, it is a typical Dutch building with a clock tower. It was once an official home to the Dutch Governors. It has been preserved in its original Dutch architectural form. It is also a historic museum and houses some interesting display of traditional bridal costumes and relics, and others. There are within the square, the Queen Victoria's fountain built in 1901 and Melaka Clock Tower built in 1886.

Portuguese Square

Built in 1984, the Portuguese Square will remind you of a tiny town in Portugal. The square is a great place for relaxation and dining. There are restaurants, food stalls, pubs and a mini-museum. Towards the evenings on most weekends, you will see plenty of visitors and tourists packing the pubs for food, concerts, and traditional Portuguese dances (performed on Saturday evening, weather permitting). It is a colourful and fun place to be!

Melaka's Sultanate Palace

Malacca Sultanate Palace is an exquisite piece of Malay architecture and is a replica of the original 15th century palace of Malacca's extinct Sultanate. The palace is built based on sketches found in the ancient Sejarah Melayu (Malay Annals). This wooden replica of the Sultan's palace houses the Malacca Cultural Museum.

Facing the palace is the Historic City Memorial Garden. An intriguing monument to commemorate the declaration of Malacca as a Historic City is the showpiece of this garden. The monument is topped with a replica of a Malay royal headdress, a symbol of Malaysians' allegiance to the throne.

Light & Sound

The best way to learn up the history of Melaka. The Light and Sound show at Bandar Hilir, Padang Pahlawan is the first such project Southeast Asia. It is equal to other projects namely the Egyptian Pyramid at Gaze, the Acropolis at Athens, and the Red Fort at Delhi. Significant events in Melaka's history are re-enacted by means of lights, narrative, dialogue, music and relative sound effects to project real-life drama that will glue visitors to the seat. Highly educational yet entertaining, visitors to Melaka should make it a point to attend the show to understand Melaka, its food and its people.

Infocraft Centre

Infocraft Melaka is the handicraft promotion centre where quality products such as batik, canes, bamboo, ceramics and other wares are carefully selected as exhibits based on workmanship and design. Made by local craftsmen, the products can be purchased as souvenirs. The centre also has an archive corner to enlighten visitors on the subject local handicraft.

Ayer Keroh

Air Keroh lies about 15 km east of Melaka Town, a tourist complex with hotels, golf courses, recreational forest, a zoo, a reptile park, butterfly farm, crocodile farm, aquarium, Mini Malaysia and Mini Asean.

Air Keroh Lake

This is yet another spot to note, especially for those who enjoy water sports. If you enjoy boating or canoeing, boats and canoes are readily available for rental. Go fishing, if you prefer some quiet and relaxing moments. Facilities such as a jogging path, a playground and eating kiosks can also be found here. With the scenic surroundings, this is an ideal place for family picnics and relaxing moments.

Auyin Hill Resort

Situated at Durian Tunggal northeast of Melaka town. A resort constructed based on the Chinese philosophy of Feng Shui or Geomancy. The first of its kind in Malaysia. Everything has been placed beautifully relative to the principle of celestial and terrestrial positioning accuracy. This is to enhance its charm and prosperity. The place is decorated with beautiful gardens especially the rose garden. On the hill, there is the match making stone.

Butterfly Farm

One of the world's most comprehensive butterfly and insect farms with well over 200 local species including rare ones namely Raja Brooke and Birdwing. There is also a collection of more than 400 insect specimens.

Crocodile Farm

The farm is the largest in the country. Since its opening in 1987, this Crocodile Park has expended and transformed to include a section of other reptilian species. This Sprawling 3.2 hectare park, a leading tourist attraction is now home to more than 200 crocodiles of various species from all over the world including the Siamese, African Dwarf, Indian Marsh/Mugger, Humpback, Tailless and many more.

Opening Hour: 9.00AM to 6.00PM (Daily)

Entrance Fee: MYR5.00 (Adult) MYR3.00 (Children)

Photo session with baby Crocs: 10.00AM to 5.00PM (Daily)

Crocodile Feeding: 11.00AM to 3.00PM (Daily)

Incredible crocodiles and snake show:

4.30PM (Monday to Friday)

11.30AM & 4.30PM (Saturday & School Holidays)

11.30AM, 2.30PM & 4.30PM (Sunday & Public Holidays)

Melaka Zoo

Zoo Melaka with an area of 21.2 ha is situated in Ayer Keroh, which is a well known tourism destination in Melaka. The zoo was established in 1963 and originally under the Melaka State Government but its management was taken over by The Department of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN) in 1979. The zoo total annual operating expenditure is about RM2 million. The zoo employ 66 employees in four major divisions, namely Administration, Veterinary, Curatory and Zoo Extensions.

Zoo Melaka has progressed rapidly to be the second biggest zoo in the country. The number of exhibits have increased five-fold since 1979. At present, there are a total of over 1200 specimen made up of 215 species of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians in the zoo. The total annual visitation is about 400 000 people and more than half are people from Melaka and the neighbouring states. The major attractions of Zoo Melaka are the Sumatran Rhinoceros, Malayan Gaur, Serow and the Indochinese Tiger. In line with the current zoo development, Zoo Melaka adopted an Open Concept and maintains the natural green environment.

Mini Malaysia / Mini Asean

Next along the Air Keroh trail of attractions is the Taman Mini Malaysia/ Taman Mini ASEAN. Fairly easy to get to from the Air Keroh Recreation Forest - it is within walking distance, a few hundred metres away. This is the main attraction at Air Keroh.

A large theme park, highlighting the culture and life of the people of Malaysia and other ASEAN countries, it features impressive replicas of the different types of traditional houses from the thirteen states of Malaysia as well as the typical abodes of the ASEAN countries. At present, the collection of structures is not quite complete as those from the countries just accepted into ASEAN have not been erected yet.

Mini Malaysia / Mini Asean Mini Malaysia / Mini Asean

Inside each house, one will find various handicrafts originating from each state or country. Handicrafts have long been a source of income for local people in almost every country. The handicrafts also serve as decoration and the life-like wax dummies, garbed in their respective traditional costumes, are the main features in those houses.

Although the designs and structures of the houses are similar, they are by no means identical. Each has a variation according to the lie of the land, the weather and the animals that share the land with the people. Entrance is RM4 for adults and RM2 for children and if you happen to come during the weekend, then you can catch the cultural dance shows for visitors.

Recreational Forest Ayer Keroh

A serene setting of tropical forest awaits discovery.Take a walk through virgin lands, practically untouched and rich in plant and animal life. At the Ayer Keroh Recreational Forest, you have more than 320ha of verdant soil that not only offers visitors a peaceful and relaxing time, but also a chance to learn more about nature amidst tranquil surroundings.

The trees are labeled making it fun and educational for a quick lesson in Malaysia's flora and fauna. It is an ideal setting for jungle tracking, hiking, jogging and cycling. The routes are marked to guide you along. Also, check out the treehouses or bunk at the park’s numerous chalets.