BUSINESS TRAVEL GUIDE

Bathing in colonial influences and architecture, Melaka is a coastal region that is ready to explore with its vibrant culture and extensive history

Melaka: Malaysia’s soothing centre of culture

SITUATED ALONG THE Strait of Malacca, Melaka has become a spirited region along Malaysia’s southwestern shores, having thrived as a leading national trade hub for centuries.

With the state having been founded in 1400, it is renowned as the birthplace of the Malay Kingdom and once stood as the most established port in the whole of Southeast Asia during the 16th century.

To this end, it is steeped in rich and extensive histories with a number of ancient landmarks and heritage structures, being the first place that colonial settlers first encountered in Malaysia. From China to Britain to Spain, a multitude of different influences can be found throughout Melaka’s architecture.

Compared to other tourist hotspots and business travel hubs across Malaysia, Melaka provides a unique experience that is not to be overlooked. Culturally, it is worlds apart from the likes of Kuala Lumpur, embodying tranquillity, harmony and curiosity.

From a web of narrow charming lanes to colourful houses in Melaka City to bright fauna and flora in the quaint rural suburbs, it is easy to see why the region was named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.