The Heart of Melaka’s Heritage, Governance, and Growth
Melaka Tengah District, located at the center of Melaka State, Malaysia, is the most developed and populated district in the state. It is home to Melaka City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and serves as the state capital, historical hub, and economic powerhouse of Melaka. Rich in colonial history, multicultural traditions, tourism, and modern infrastructure, Melaka Tengah represents the true essence of Melaka.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Melaka Tengah District |
| State | Melaka |
| District Capital | Melaka City |
| Area | Approx. 297 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Over 600,000 (highest in Melaka) |
| Parliamentary Seats | 2 (Kota Melaka, Tangga Batu) |
| Local Authorities | Majlis Bandaraya Melaka Bersejarah (MBMB), MPHTJ |
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim)
Melaka Tengah consists of 29 mukims, including:
- Bandar Melaka
- Batu Berendam
- Ayer Keroh
- Duyong
- Bukit Katil
- Cheng
- Klebang
- Kandang
- Peringgit
- Krubong
- Tanjung Kling
- Ujong Pasir
- And more…
Key Towns and Urban Centers
- Melaka City – State capital, tourism hub, and administrative center
- Ayer Keroh – Government complexes, zoo, botanical gardens, and MITC
- Bukit Katil & Batu Berendam – Residential and educational zones
- Tanjung Kling & Klebang – Beach areas with resorts and seafood spots
Economy & Development
- Tourism is the main economic driver (UNESCO status)
- Thriving retail, hospitality, manufacturing, and services sectors
- Historical trade zones turned into modern shopping & business areas
- Industrial areas: Bukit Rambai, Krubong, Cheng
- Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC) in Ayer Keroh boosts MICE industry
Education & Institutions
- Public and private schools across all zones
- Multimedia University (MMU Melaka), Malacca College of Science & Management, and vocational colleges
- Numerous Islamic religious schools (Sekolah Agama, Tahfiz)
- Libraries, learning centers, and tuition hubs
Healthcare Facilities
- Hospital Melaka – state’s main government hospital
- Private hospitals: Pantai Hospital Ayer Keroh, Mahkota Medical Centre
- 24/7 clinics and pharmacies throughout the district
Transport & Accessibility
- Melaka International Airport (Batu Berendam)
- Bus services (Melaka Sentral), taxis, e-hailing (Grab)
- Access via PLUS Highway (Ayer Keroh exit)
- Extensive urban road network, riverside walkways, and bicycle lanes
Tourism & Attractions
- Historical Sites in Melaka City:
- A Famosa, St. Paul’s Hill, Christ Church, Stadthuys, Dutch Square
- Jonker Street: Night market, antique shops, local food
- Melaka River Cruise: Iconic view of old and new Melaka
- Ayer Keroh Attractions:
- Melaka Zoo, Melaka Wonderland, Mini Malaysia & ASEAN Park, Botanical Garden
- Beaches: Klebang Beach, Tanjung Kling Beach
- Cultural Museums & Art Galleries
Culture & Cuisine
- Multicultural population: Malay, Chinese, Indian, Portuguese Eurasian, Baba-Nyonya
- Local delicacies:
- Chicken Rice Ball, Asam Pedas Melaka, Nyonya Laksa, Cendol, Kuih Lapis
- Cultural events: Pesta Melaka, Portuguese Festa San Pedro, Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Deepavali
- Traditional performances: Dondang Sayang, Silat, Chinese Opera, Boria
Summary
Melaka Tengah is the soul of Melaka State—where heritage and modernity coexist. With its blend of centuries-old culture, vibrant tourism, and growing urban economy, it is the perfect showcase of Malaysia’s historical pride and future potential.