The many faces of Melaka
Melaka, on the southwestern coast of Peninsular Malaysia, holds a unique position as a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site for its illustrious past and well-preserved remnants of colonial influence.
Located some 145 kilometres from the Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur, Melaka is a popular destination for both tourists and locals seeking a weekend getaway.
Thanks to Tourism Malaysia, who hosted a Bruneian delegation ahead of Visit Melaka Year 2024, I joined my media colleagues as well as representatives from the travel industry to visit the Malaysian state from May 15-17.
The first stop was A’Famosa Resort, a prominent destination known for its extensive array of entertainment and leisure activities sprawling across a 520-hectare site. Prior to checking in at the resort, we toured A’Famosa Water Theme Park, Safari Wonderland and Freeport A’Famosa Outlet, as well as Coach Airways, a must-visit boutique for high-end fashionistas.
The following morning, we made our first stop at Orchard Wellness and Health Resort Malaysia, a luxury retreat nestled in the lush greenery of the Ayer Keroh rainforest. It offers a tranquil and rejuvenating sanctuary for guests seeking relaxation, holistic healing and an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The resorts serene nature provides the perfect backdrop for the programmes it offers, which combine traditional Eastern healing with modern holistic therapy.
For me, the highlight was the harvesting of honey from stingless bees. Once extracted, our group was given a chance to sample the fresh nectar.
The next stop was Encore Melaka, a very impressive theatre hall housing “the longest stages” in Southeast Asia. It boasts four main stages – water, lifting platform, multi-storey and kampong – that are ever-changing through projection mapping and lighting to provide a dynamic space and atmosphere for an immersive performance.
The following day’s itinerary provided a taste of Melaka’s world heritage status. We strolled through sites such as the Ruins of St Paul’s Church, Porta de Santiago, Flor De La Mar, Malacca Sultanate Palace Museum and Stadhuys Museum Complex. We also climbed atop Taming Sari Tower for a bird’s eye view of the city.
We then strolled to our next hotel – Courtyard by Marriot Melaka, conveniently situated near St Peter’s Church. After a seafood feast at Cerana Restaurant in Telok Mas, it was time to attend the inaugural ceremony of the Melaka River and Coastal Development Corporation Building by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.
We spent the rest of day two on a boat ride along Melaka River marvelling at the city’s picturesque waterfront and charming landmarks.
Our final day in the Malaysian state was definitely the most memorable as we got a chance to visit Malaysia Heritage Studios in Taman Mini Malaysia, and Zoo Melaka in Ayer Keroh.
At the studios, we witnessed live performances, explored interactive exhibits and learnt about the diverse Malaysian cultural heritage through its traditional arts, crafts, music and dances.
Meanwhile, Zoo Melaka spans 54 acres and is home to over 500 animals from around the world. With its open concept to mimic natural habitats of the animals it houses, the zoo plays host to an array of wildlife education and conservation programmes.
One of the main attractions is the Dinosaur Encounter, offering visitors thrilling Jurassic Park-like experience. Opened in December 2020, it features kid-friendly attractions, educational exhibits and over 100 life-sized replicas of dinosaur species.
There are also performances and virtual ride to take visitors back to the pre-historic age.
Looking back on the trip, one thing that stands out about Melaka is how much it caters to different types of travellers.
From historical landmarks to pristine nature and exceptional hospitality, it promises to leave an indelible mark on every traveller’s heart.
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