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Background of Malacca |
Getting to Malacca |
Getting around Malacca |
Places of Interest |
Shopping |
Hotels in Malacca
Background of Malacca
Malacca
was founded by a Sumatran prince, Parameswara, during the early
1400's. In the following centuries, it grew from a fishing village into
a great cosmopolitan city. Malacca became an important port and trading
centre for European and Western countries. Merchants from all over the
world came to trade spices, silk and other treasures. Some even settled
in this land "flowing with milk and honey". Over time, this coveted
city was subject to Portuguese, Dutch and British rule. Today, Malacca
is an illustrious historic city - a melting pot of historical treasures
and cultures.
Getting to Malacca
By air, Malacca is only accessible
either from the Kuala Lumpur or Johor Bahru airports. However, getting
to Malacca from there is easy as buses and taxis are plentiful. If you
prefer to drive, Malacca is only 3 hours from Singapore and 1 1/2 hours
from Kuala Lumpur. Alternatively, you can also take the train. Tampin,
the nearest railway station is only 45 minutes away.
By coach - Singapore Express daily, hourly, earliest at 8 am, latest
at 5 pm, cost SG$11.00 (return is RM$11.50), station at junction of
Kallang and Lavender Rd. Air-con. Tel. +65 293 5915
Express Delima daily, cost SG$11.00 (return is RM$11.50), station at
junction of Kallang and Lavender Rd. Air-con. Tel. +65 294 9306
Transnational daily, (3 seater per row), cost SG$15.00 (return is RM$15.00),
station at junction of Kallang and Lavender Rd. Air-con. Tel. 294 7034
Getting around Malacca
The best way to discover the
historical splendour of Malacca is by walking along her narrow lanes
and rows of beautiful centuries old houses and shops. Another great
way is to rent a trishaw. Always agree on the rates before taking the
trishaw.
Places of Interest
 A
Famosa
The hallmark of Malacca
and perhaps the most photographed subject next to the Stadhuys. Built
by the Portuguese in 1511 as a fortress it sustained severe structural
damage during the Dutch Invasion. The Dutch had set to destroy it but
timely intervention by Sir Stamford Raffles in 1808 saved what remains
of A Famosa today.
The Stadhuys built in 1650 as the official residence of Dutch
Governors and their officers, the edifice is a fine example of Dutch
architecture.Preserved in its original structure and form , it now houses
the Historic Museum and Ethnography Museum. On display daily are fine
traditional bridal costumes and relics from Malacca's glorious past.
 Christ
Church Standing exactly as it has always been since 1753, the church
is testimony to Dutch architectural ingenuity. Take note of the church's
handmade pews, ceiling beams constructed without joins, Brass Bible,
tombstone written in Armenian and 'Last Super' in glazed tiles.
St. Paul's Church Built by a Portuguese Captain by the name of
Duarte Coelho, the chapel was turned by the Dutch into a burial ground
for their nobel 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.
St. Francis Xavier's
Church Built in 1849, by Reverend Farve, a Frenchman, the Gothic
towered church is dedicated to St. Francis Xavier is well-remembered
for his missionary work spreading Catholocism to South East Asia in
the 16th Century.
Cheng Hoon Teng's Temple The oldest Chinese temple in the country.
It was built in 1646 with materials shipped out of China. Fine workmanship
is evident in the ornately decorated mythological figures, carvings,and
lacquer work inside the temple.
 The
Baba and Nyonya Heritage 'Straits Chinese' or the Baba and Nyonya
, are Chinese of noble descendants that have adopted much of the Malay
culture into theirs. The public can now review the heirloom unique to
this heritage at private museum run by the Babas and Nyonyas of Malacca.
Dutch Graveyard A war memorial dedicated to fine British officers
and soldiers died in Naning War (1831-1832).
Malaysia Youth Museum The museum is dedicated to the contribution
made by the youth in the country economic and social well-being of the
country. The noble efforts evident at regional, national and international
levels are displayed at the museum
Proclamation Of Independence
Memorial Built in 1912, the former club house of Malacca Club now
houses invaluable exhibits of the country's struggle leading to the
independence.Exhibits are in the form of relics, manuscripts, video
tapes, film and slides.
Hang Jebat's Mausoleum
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 run 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 the punishment against Hang Tuah for a crime he didn't
commit, Hang Jebat was accused by Hang Tuah of 'durhaka' (contumacy).
Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar
Moorthi Temple One of the first Hindu temple built in the country
at the turn of the century. It was built on the plot given by the Dutch.
Kampung Kling's Mosque
One of the oldest mosques in the country with Sumatran architectural
features. Instead of a conventional dome, a three tier roof rising like
a pyramid is in place. A minaret peculiar in shape from a typical moorish
style, is structured like a Pagoda portraying the mixture of East- West
archtectural influence.
Maritime Museum The Museum is constructed fter 'Flora De La Mar',
the Portuguese ship that sank off the Coast of Malacca on its way to
Portugal. With its hull laden with invaluable treasures seized from
Malacca, the ship was doomed from existence had it not for the efforts
to Malacca's heritage. At the museum, visitor can get a closer look
at Malacca from the famed Malay Sultanate of the 14th century to the
Portuguese era, the Dutch era and the British era. There are exhibits
of foreign ships that had once called at the port of Malacca during
the height of its maritime hegemony.
Hang Kasturi's Mausoleum
Hang Kasturi studied 'silat'(Malay martial art) under the same tutelage
as Hang Tuah, Hang Jebat, Hang Lekir and Hang Lekiu. He became one of
the 'hulubalangs' (knights) that served Malacca together with Hang Tuah.
Except for Hang Jebat, Hang Kasturi and others remained loyal to the
sultan to their dying day.
Al Azim Mosque Al Azim
Mosque is a state mosque located at Bukit Palah, 2 km from Malacca
city.
Kampung Hulu Mosque
Built in 1728 by Dato Shamsudin. It is the oldest mosque in Malaysia.Its
unique archtectural style is not traceable to others in the country.
Tranquerah Mosque
Prominent in its architectural grandeur, the mosque is unique and bears
testimony to the fact that Islam had its rightful place in Malacca almost
600 years ago. The tomb of Sultan Hussain of Johore is in the compound
of the mosque. He was the ruler who signed the session of Singapore
with Sir Stamford Raffles in 1819.
Malacca's Sultanate Palace
Built based on the description and reference to the palace in 'Sejarah
Melayu(the Malay Annals), the wooden replica houses the Cultural Museum
of Malacca. Situated at the foot of St. Paul 's Hill, it is the only
Malay palace fromMalacca's glorious past built with such detail and
refinement.
St. Peter's Church Built in 1710 by the Portuguese descendants
and comprising an architectural mix of the Oriental and Occidental.
Sam Po Kong Temple
Dedicated to Admiral Cheng Ho, the temple was named after a fish that
miraculously saved the admiral's ship from sinking after it had been
hit by a storm enroute to Malacca from China. The fish mysteriously
placed itself against a damaged hull preventing the ship from taking
on water.
Auyin Hill Resort
Constructed based on the philosophy of 'Feng Shui' (geomancy), the resort
is one of a kind in the country. Every element has been placed relative
to the principle of celestial and terrestrial positioning accuracy to
enhance its charm, 'chi'(power) and prosperity.
Mini Malaysia A stupendous
theme complex to enable visitors to view the traditional houses of the
13 states of Malaysia on a single visit. The complex displays life-size
authentic houses of Malaysia crafted by master builders. Each house
has been furnished with corresponding elements adding ambience of originality
that capture the houses in their traditional setting.
Mini ASEAN A unique
theme park conceived as the summary of prominent cultural elements of
the countries that make up ASEAN i.e. Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand,
Phillipines, Singapore and Brunei.
Recreational Forest
A serene setting of tropical forests awaits discovery. Untouched to
enable visitors to truly experience a leisurely walk through a tropical
haven.The trees are labelled making it fun and an educational for a
quick lesson in Malaysia's rich flora and fauna. It is an ideal setting
for juggle tracking, hiking, jogging and cycling. The routes are marked.
Crocodile Farm The
farm is the largest in the country. More than 100 species of crocodiles
are reared here including Albino and hunchbacked. Lanscaped to create
a natural environment conducive for the reptiles.
Malacca Zoo More
than 44 species of animals found in Southeast Asia and Africa amidst
natural setting. Rated the best zoo in this part of the country, it
is an enciting place to discover the animal kingdom at your own pace.
Ayer Keroh Lake Ideal
for exciting water sports activities such as boating and canoeing. Equipped
with amenities and facilities to enable a family to enjoy relaxing moments
amidst scenic environment.
Dol Said Grave The
ninth ruler of Naning who defiantly opposed the imposition of tax on
the districtby the British. The Naning war, waged in 1834, made Dol
Said a hero of exceptional valor that earned him a permanent place in
the history of Malacca .
Gadek Hot Spring
Popular as the spa among visitors from far and wide seeking therapeutic
cure for skin diseases. Handicraft shops and playgrounds have been made
available to provide additional attractions for visitors. An ideal spot
for family outing .
Dutch Fort About
49 km. from Malacca city on the route to Port Dickson stands a Dutch
fort built in 1757. It stands on raised ground known as Bukit Supai(Sepoy's
Hill).
Hang Tuah's Mausoleum
A fully decorated admiral of Malacca's naval forces who defended successfully,
countless attacks against Malacca sovereignty from Siamese and Achinise
fleets. Hang Tuah's outstanding performance as a military officer made
him a legend that has graced many a court and the history of Malacca.
Hang Tuah's well
Located in Kampung Duyong where Hang Tuah was born and spent his childhood
among four of his good friends who would later become the famous knights
of Malacca. The well is said to be the abode of his soul which takes
the apparition. of a white crocodile. For a commoner to catch the glimpse
of Hang Tuah is hardly likely. It is said that the holy among us can
ever hope to see the apparition.
Pulau Besar A haven
for holiday makers seeking exclusive right to sandy beaches, clear blue
water, the sun and the sea front chalets on stilts. The island is an
excellent resort for swimming, fishing, picknicking and snorkeling.
Tun Teja's Mausoleum
The daugter of Sri Amar Di Raja Pahang convinced by Hang Tuah to marry
Sultan Mahmud Shah. Died a queen in Merlimau, about 24 km. from Malacca
city, while retreating with members of Malacca royal family from Portuguese
attack in 1511.
Malacca Traditional House
Architecturally resplendent and signature to Malacca's 19th century
artistic style. Built by a Chieftain, intricate wood carving forms the
unique facade as well as the interior section of the house. Located
5 km. Southwest of Merlimau town.
Jasin's Museum Established to uncover the facts, and the myths,
behind the establishment of Jasin as one of the significant settlements
of Malacca's territorial expansion. Exhibits range from historical and
cultural artifacts.
Alor Gajah's Museum
Exhibits will help visitors to journey into the past and to visualise
the amazing stories behind the district of Alor Gajah.
Grilled Fish spots On the shores
at Serkam and Pengkalan Pernu(Umbai) some 15 km and 10 km respectively
from Malacca, on the road south to Muar, visitors can pick their own
fish and savour the delightful flavour of fresh grilled fish with an
assortment of local dishes in a kampung or village environment.
Shopping
Jonker Street
A definite haven for antique collectors
and bargain hunters. Authentic artifacts 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.
Hotels in Malacca
Hotel Puri Melaka
Century Mahkota
Hotel Melaka
Renaissance
Melaka Hotel
Hotel Equatorial
Malacca
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