The Historic Heart of Malaysia’s Colonial and Cultural Legacy
Melaka, also known as Malacca, is a small but historically significant state in southern Peninsular Malaysia. Once a powerful maritime sultanate and later colonized by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, Melaka is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its colonial buildings, Peranakan culture, and heritage tourism.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| State Name | Melaka (also spelled Malacca) |
| Capital | Melaka City |
| State Ruler (Governor) | Tun Mohd Ali Rustam |
| Chief Minister (CM) | Ab Rauf Yusoh (BN–UMNO) |
| Area | 1,664 sq. km (One of Malaysia’s smallest) |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 1 million |
| Major Cities/Towns | Melaka City, Alor Gajah, Jasin |
| Official Language | Malay (Bahasa Malaysia) |
| Religion | Islam (official), Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity |
| Districts | 3 |
Geographical Borders
- North: Negeri Sembilan
- South: Johor
- West: Strait of Malacca (coastal access)
Melaka lies along the historic Strait of Malacca, once one of the busiest sea trade routes in the world.
Administrative Districts
- Melaka Tengah District – Capital city, government, tourism hub
- Alor Gajah District – Industrial and suburban town
- Jasin District – Agriculture and residential region
Historical Significance
- Founded in the 15th century by Parameswara, a Hindu prince from Sumatra
- Became an Islamic sultanate and trading empire
- Colonized successively by Portuguese (1511), Dutch (1641), and British (1824)
- Joined the Federation of Malaya in 1948; Malaysian independence in 1957
Economy & Industry
- Main sectors: tourism, manufacturing (electronics, food), agriculture
- Industrial zones in Alor Gajah and Jasin
- Heritage tourism is the backbone of the economy
- Coastal activities and river tourism contribute to local income
Infrastructure & Transportation
- Roads: Well-connected via North–South Expressway (PLUS)
- Public Transport: Buses, taxis, e-hailing apps available
- Airport: Melaka International Airport (Batu Berendam) – domestic & regional flights
- Ports: Melaka Gateway Port (development in progress)
Education & Healthcare
- Universities: Multimedia University (MMU), Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTeM)
- Public & private colleges throughout the city
- Hospitals: Melaka General Hospital, Mahkota Medical Centre, Pantai Hospital
- High-quality medical tourism services available
Tourism & Attractions
- A Famosa Fort: Portuguese fortress ruins
- Stadthuys: Dutch administrative buildings (now museum)
- Jonker Street: Famous for food, antiques, and local crafts
- Christ Church Melaka: Iconic 18th-century Dutch church
- Melaka River Cruise: Scenic journey through historic city
- Menara Taming Sari: Revolving tower with panoramic city view
- Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum
- Floating Mosque (Masjid Selat Melaka) on the straits
Cultural Highlights
- Diverse ethnic makeup: Malays, Chinese (especially Peranakan/Baba-Nyonya), Indians, Eurasians
- Rich in Peranakan culture – unique fusion of Malay and Chinese heritage
- Famous local foods:
- Chicken Rice Ball
- Nyonya Laksa
- Cendol
- Satay Celup
- Asam Pedas Melaka
Summary
Melaka is a treasure trove of history and culture—where the echoes of empires, trade routes, and traditional lifestyles meet modern development. As a global heritage destination, Melaka offers one of the most enriching cultural experiences in Malaysia.