Monday, December 30, 2013

VISIT MELAKA YEAR 2014

MALACCA Chief Minister urged everyone to enjoy Visit Malaysia Year 2014. To Datuk Seri Idris Haron, VMY 2014 is Visit Malacca Year and not just Visit Malaysia Year! Smart isn't it?

He made this reference at last week's convocation for graduates of the Limkokwing University of Creative Technology. He was honoured with an Honorary Doctorate. He was then called to address the graduating students, parents and guests.
The Sultanah of Pahang, Sultanah Hajjah Kalsom, was the university's Chancellor. Addressing the crowd, Idris said: "Next year is VMY 2014. So make sure you all come to Malacca and visit us. VMY is not just Visit Malaysia Year, it's also Visit Malacca Year."
The hall laughed and applauded. And realising that the Chancellor was also listening, Idris said: "After visiting Malacca, visit Pahang too. You must..."
Idris said many things in his speech but his humour on this occasion stood out. Incidentally, try out the bungalow at the Kelebang Beach Resort -- good for group bookings, BBQ and family get-together. Service needs improvement though.


Read more: Malacca's year, too - Columnist - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/opinion/columnist/malacca-s-year-too-1.449004#ixzz2p5ypv9vV

Saturday, December 28, 2013

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2014 and HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR


In a few days time, 2013 will end and we will usher in the New Year of 2014. We want to send our greetings to everyone for ushering 2014.

May 2014 bring us joy, happiness, health and peace to all Malaysians and our fellow humans around the world.

Also, by the end of January 2014, all Chinese around the world will usher in the Year of the Horse.

May the Horse gallops in prosperity, wealth and happiness for everyone.

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2014 and QONG XI FA CAI in the YEAR OF THE HORSE.

Saturday, October 19, 2013

WHY NOT VISIT THE ROYAL PRESS


BREAKING NEWS FROM THE ROYAL PRESS

1. WELCOME TO THE ROYAL PRESS, MALACCA

We are delighted to announce that The Royal Press, Malacca is ready to welcome you.The premises are open to the public from 10-00 am to 6-00 pm daily, from Wednesday to Monday, including weekends. We are closed on Tuesdays.

Our printing press operations will run as usual, from 9-00am to 5-00 pm on weekdays, offering a unique perspective of our printing heritage.

2. GUIDED GROUP TOURS
Students, clubs, associations and special interest groups are especially welcome to join our guided group tours. Each tour lasts about 30 minutes, commencing at the following times:
- 10.30 am
- 12.30 pm
- 02.30 pm
- 04.30 pm

General Admission Prices:
Adult - RM12
Child (12 years & below) - RM6
*Children under 13 years old must be accompanied by an adult.

Please let us know your proposed date and time of visit for our guides to organize an appropriate program for you.

We look forward to hearing from you on telephone: +6012 3517540 or email: tour@theroyalpress.my

Advance notice is best as it allows us to prepare a meaningful tour for you.

Friday, October 18, 2013

HAPPY DEEPAVALI


In 2 weeks time, Malaysians of Hindu faith will celebrate the Deepavali festival of lights. May we take the opportunity of wishing our Hindu friends "Selamat Deepavali".

HAPPY DEEPAVALI

Sunday, October 13, 2013

VEDRO MALL AT JALAN KEE ANN

A new investment by the Hatten Group is going to be built at the end of Jalan Kee Ann. This 7 storey building with 2 basement car parks and 5 storeys of retail space will enhance the value of properties around Jalan Kee Ann.

This multi-million ringgit project is at Lot 427, Jalan Kee Ann,75100 Melaka. Completion of the project is expected to be done by 4th. Quarter of 2016.

With the over development of Bandar Hilir, finally, developers see the potential of Melaka New Chinatown especially beside the famous Melaka River.

In three years time ( by end 2016), the quiet area around the former Melaka Central Market will be transformed into a vibrant space. This area has been neglected since the Melaka Central Market was demolished in mid 1980s.

Details of this development can be viewed at : www.vedromall.com

Friday, October 4, 2013

MELAKA TARGETS 14 MILLION VISITORS IN 2013

Melaka records 6.8 mil tourist arrivals, confident of 14 mil target

Posted on 1 October 2013 - 04:28pm Last updated on 1 October 2013 - 04:57pm

MELAKA (Oct 1, 2013): Melaka has recorded 6.8 million domestic and foreign tourist arrivals during the first six months of this year, from 6.7 million in the corresponding period last year, Chief Minister Datuk Idris Haron told the State Assembly today.

He said the state was targeting new markets, like the Middle East and Africa, with efforts being made to attract more tourists from the affected countries to come to Melaka.

"The (state) government is confident of achieving this year's target of 14 million tourist arrivals, compared with 13.7 million last year," he said in his motion of thanks on the speech by the Yang Dipertua Negeri of Melaka, Tun Mohd Khalil Yaakob when opening the Melaka State Assembly sitting.

He called on all quarters to play their role to achieve the target and not to politicise issues, like the case on the closing of Jonker Walk which was aimed to reduce traffic congestion in the area.

Idris said efforts were also being made by the state government to attract more investors and negotiations were in progress with giant companies, like Microsoft and Guardian, to get them to invest in Melaka.

The state government is also discussing with a company from Spain to build a renewable energy plant, involving investment of RM2 billion, he added.

Bernama

Tuesday, September 3, 2013

HAPPY 50TH. BIRTHDAY, MALAYSIA

HAPPY 50TH. BIRTHDAY MALAYSIA!!!

On 16th. September 2013, Malaysia will celebrate her Golden Anniversary.

Yes, Malaysia is going to be 50 years old. Let all Malaysians celebrate this important milestone in our journey of being an independent nation. Let us stay united, work hand in hand and play together to achieve our goals for the next 50 years ahead.

SELAMAT HARI MALAYSIA.

IMPRESSION MELAKA

Impression Melaka' Launched Next Year As Iconic Tourism Product

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 3 (Bernama) -- The 'Impression Melaka' project, to be launched in October next year, is set to become one of the iconic tourist attractions for Visit Malaysia 2014.

Tourism and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz said 'Impression Melaka' was the latest entry point project within the Tourism National Key Economic Area (NKEA).

"In line with NKEA, this RM213.2 million project is estimated to attract 1.2 million tourists per annum, generating RM179 million GNI (Gross National Income) into the economy," he told a press conference here Tuesday.

Mohamed Nazri said the project would also create approximately 500 direct, and thousands of indirect job opportunities to locals, apart from attracting foreign investments, and boost local livelihood.

He noted that the project was the first and only Mega Outdoor 'Impression' Series outside China, and exclusive in Malaysia, as the first location in the Southeast Asia region.

"This project will add a key highlight to Malaysia and contribute to making Malaysia a preferred destination," said the minister.

'Impression Melaka', he said, would showcase a perfect combination of natural environment as the background, whilst utilising the latest light and sound technology, modern art concepts and huge number of cultural performers.

He said 'Impression Melaka' would host two or three shows every night, with each show lasting between 70 and 90 minutes, with rotating audience seating which could accommodate up to 2,000 visitors per performance.

"This unique tourism product will feature a mega outdoor performance directed by world-acclaimed Zhang Yimou, Wang Chaoge and Fanyue, the directors of the 2008 Beijing Olympic opening and closing ceremony," said Mohamed Nazri.

-- BERNAMA

Monday, September 2, 2013

THE KAHAANI MALACCA

Stately charm of The Kahaani Malacca

By ROBIN AUGUSTIN | streets@nst.com.my

MAGICAL: A stay at The Kahaani is an experience to treasure

MALACCA: THE Kahaani Malacca gets its name from the Hindi word which means story, but spending a night in the lavish mansion is nothing short of a fairytale.

Formerly an official residence of the Malacca state governor, The Kahaani sits on a 0.6ha of land in Taman Tasik Utama, a mere five minutes from the Ayer Keroh Tol Plaza.

The mansion exudes prestige and class with its massive gates, driveway and lawn. The state's emblem at the entrance serves as a reminder of the mansion's past status.

Residence Hotels & Resorts took over the reins of management last year and spent three months restoring the mansion to its former glory.

The interior decor of the The Kahaani is a tasteful blend of colonial and Peranakan furnishings, antiques, lighting as well as a red-carpet lined spiral staircase. The management has also brought in new furniture and bathroom fixtures that compliment the mansion's character.

The Kahaani has six suites under three categories. Each suite is named after a traditional musical instrument. There is Rebana, Angklung, Serunai and Kenong suites. The creme de la creme is the Nafiri and the Japanese styled Tsuzumi, which have their own living rooms.

The largest of the suites is the Nafiri, in which Bollywood superstar, Datuk Shah Rukh Khan has stayed in.

Aside from the Rebana, the other suites each come with an extra king-sized bed and a hot tub. All rooms are large enough to accommodate up to four persons, with extra beds available upon request. Inside, the rooms are the epitome of luxury. The sheer size and furnishings of the rooms are astounding and are equipped with high speed wireless Internet, an LED television, Astro and a DVD player.

The hallmark of the Kahaani is its personalised butler service, which explains the omission of a mini-bar, coffee making facilities and ironing board from the rooms.

Like the magical cartoon servants that look after the castle in Disney's Beauty and the Beast, operations manager Kamal Mohd Zani and his staff of nine, work around the clock, happily serving guests and ensuring the mansion remains spotless.

"Here, guests get to enjoy a first-class colonial experience. Our butlers pamper guests, doing everything for them," said Kamal, adding that The Kahaani is the only place in Malacca with a personal butler service.

Dining at the mansion is a privilege exclusive to guests staying at The Kahaani. From breakfast to dinner, all meals are served in sets. There are also colonial styled and Nyonya tea sets featuring cakes, scones, authentic Nyonya kuih and, of course, a selection of fine tea.

The quality of food served is immaculate and the portions are generous. For breakfast, which is complimentary, guests have a choice of either continental or American breakfast sets, complete with a selection of eggs, juice, breads, cereals, sausages and more.

Lunch and dinner is a Western affair complete with an appetiser, soup, main course and dessert. Local delicacies are also available upon request.

Aside from lunch and dinner, light snacks can also be prepared to satisfy those late-night cravings. The delectable meals can be enjoyed in the cosy setting of the Nyonya Room, outside by the pool, or common balcony. Guests can even have their meals served to them in the comfort of their suites.

If you manage to resist the urge to stay in bed, then head to the mansion's stunning pool which is surrounded by a wading area with hydro massage jets, a mini-island and water features.

A popular feature of a colonial mansion is a library. The Kahaani has a spacious library and games room with a selection of books, traditional games like congkak and popular board games for adults and children alike.

There are two function rooms in the mansion. The Batik is a board room styled meeting room, equipped with a projector, laptop and audio-visual facilities.

The Batik can accommodate 10 people and also function as a dining avenue. The Sutera function room is suitable for small dinners or events to the tune of a 100 guests. It is encased by glass walls, giving guests a great view of the pool.

Naturally, the uniqueness and charm of The Kahaani makes it a popular venue for weddings and private functions, which can be organised on the mansion's vast lawn.

Guests who wish to enjoy Malacca's many tourist spots can do so as a limousine service can be arranged. Airport transfers to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport and Low Cost Carrier Terminal are also available.

Rates at The Kahaani start from RM1,500+ per night, but promotional rates are available. For reservations, call 06-231 3712 or email reservation@thekahaani.com.

For more details, visit www.thekahaani.com/ Read more: Stately charm of The Kahaani Malacca - Central - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/streets/central/stately-charm-of-the-kahaani-malacca-1.333796#ixzz2dnhUhfGI

MALACCA SET TO MAKE AN IMPRESSION

Published: Tuesday September 3, 2013 MYT 12:00:00 AM

Updated: Tuesday September 3, 2013 MYT 11:53:03 AM

Malacca set to make an Impression

BY JUNE H.L. WONG

A scene from the Impression Liu Sanjie outdoor musical in Guilin, which features dazzling light effects and an awesome setting of mountains and a river.

KUALA LUMPUR: Malacca will become the first city outside China to stage the 10th production under acclaimed Chinese filmmaker Zhang Yimou’s “Impression” series of outdoor musical shows.

Impression Melaka, is a project between PTS Impression Sdn Bhd and China Impression Wonders Art Development Co Ltd, which will be endorsed by Tourism and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz today as a National Key Economic Area project under Pemandu.

This follows a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed by PTS Impression CEO Boo Kuan Loon and China Impression Wonders Art Development Co’s co-founder and CEO Wang Chaoge in February in Malacca, witnessed by then Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen, and the project’s official launch in Beijing in May.

The immensely successful Impression musicals were founded by Zhang and his creative partners Wang Chaoge and Fan Yue who were also directors of the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

The stage for Impression Melaka will be built to look like a Chinese junk in Admiral Zheng He's fleet with the audience seated in the middle.

All the Impression shows are live outdoor performances involving huge casts, humongous stages and amazing special effects.

The first was launched in 1998 in Guilin called Impression Lui Sanjie on a 2km-long setting along the Li River. Since then, there are Impressions in nine locations all over China, including Lijiang and West Lake, using spectacular natural backdrops.

Impression Melaka, however, will be performed on a gigantic stage built to look like Admiral Zheng He’s junk with a revolving seating area for 2,014 in the middle.

It was Wang who decided on Malacca as her company’s first foreign foray after being pursued by a persistent Boo who brought she and her team to visit his hometown.

Boo, 42, who describes himself as a true-blue anak Melaka, is a property developer who wants to create a destination theatre experience to benefit locals and give tourists a reason to stay overnight in Malacca.

Mr. Boo Kuan Loon, CEO of PTS Impressions Sdn Bhd Boo wants to create a destination theatre experience to benefit locals and give tourists a reason to stay overnight in Malacca.

“Most tourists come to Malacca for day tours but don’t stay overnight because there isn’t much to see or do at night. Impression Melaka can change that as there will two performances every night,” he said.

Boo added that it was a feather in Malacca’s cap that Wang’s company chose the city for its first foreign production out of 150 proposals from cities around the world, thanks in part to its Unesco world heritage status.

Although Impression Melaka’s storyline and music are being written and the stage designed by China Impression Wonders Art Development Co, Boo stressed it would not be a Chinese story but one that reflected Malacca’s vibrant cosmopolitan history and heritage.

As Wang said in an interview with Lifestyle Magazine, “When we go outside the country, we’re not taking Chinese culture and exporting it to them, but rather we export our art and performance – Impression Melaka is about Malaysian culture.”

She was also quoted as saying at the Beijing launch that Impression Melaka would “showcase the city’s glorious past and modern day life.”

Nevertheless, the junk-shaped stage recalls Zheng He’s five visits to the port in seven voyages between 1405 and 1433 which led to a longstanding relationship between the Malacca sultanate and China.

The directors: (from left) Zhang, Wang and Fan who will create Impression Melaka. Impression Melaka, a RM300mil project, is funded by local and foreign investors and will be the only one in the region for the next three years, said Boo.

He said the 75-minute long show, with a cast of 200, is projected to sell 1.3 million tickets a year, at about RM130 a seat.

Like other Impression shows, most of the performers will be ordinary folk living in the vicinity who will be trained by Zhang, Wang, Fan and their team.

While its location is still under wraps, Boo said the theatre will require 8.1ha, while another 32.4ha will be developed for other related developments, such as restaurants and a tourism village.

Impression Melaka is scheduled to open in October 2014, in conjunction with Malaysia-China Friendship Year to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations and in time for Visit Malaysia Year.

Wednesday, August 28, 2013

HAPPY MERDEKA

On Saturday, 31st. August 2013, Malaysia will celebrate her 56th. Anniversary of Merdeka. We got our Independence from Britain on 31st. August 1957 through negotiation and not by the barrel of the gun. No blood was shed and we were grateful for that.

Let us celebrate our Independence together and have a give and take attitude for all races. No single race must dominate another but we must work, play and cry together so that our nation can reach greater heights in race relation, economic growth, prosperity and harmony.

MERDEKA, MERDEKA, MERDEKA.

MELAKA NEW FERRIS WHEEL AT PULAU MELAKA

RM20 million Ferris wheel for Pulau Melaka

Eddie Beck | August 26, 2013

Touted as the 13th tallest in the world, the Malaysian Eye is set to be the main attraction in a new RM50 million tourist complex shaping up on the once abandoned man-made island.

MALACCA: The Malaysian Eye, a 103-metre Ferris wheel touted as the 13th tallest in the world, is to be the centrepiece attraction in a new tourist complex shaping up in Pulau Melaka.

The state government has invested about RM1 billion to redevelop the once abandoned man-made island and is hoping the RM40-RM50 million tourist complex will help boost the property market.

Costing RM20 million, the Malaysian Eye is expected to be operational in the first quarter of next year. It will have 48 capsules taking 288 passengers on a 20-minute round trip.

Each passenger is expected to pay RM20 per round trip and in the first year of operation, the company expects to ferry approximately 1.2 million passengers.

Sited on a five-acre prime site in Pulau Melaka, the entire complex which will house retail and entertainment complex, food outlets and a 28-storey hotel with 300 rooms.

“A definite tourist attraction will be a chocolate factory,” said Bernard Siow, the CEO of The Eye Sdn Bhd. “Piling work is now completed. The company will be calling for tenders to build other areas of the complex. The components of the ferris wheel have arrived and they will be assembled in stages.”

Sunday, August 25, 2013

MELAKA CONSERVATION CENTRE AT JALAN BUNGA RAYA

A new Melaka Conservation Centre has been opened by the Melaka State government at No 45, Jalan Bunga Raya, 75000 Melaka. Hopefully, owners of heritage buildings who want to renovate their premises according to heritage standards can visit this centre for information.

Thursday, August 22, 2013

MELAKA MILLIONAIRES' ROW

Malacca’s Millionaires’ Row Posted on June 7, 2013 - Featured, Property News. OUR STREET HERITAGE By M. Veera Pandiyan veera@thestar.com.my

Looking around: Tourists soaking in the sights in Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock.

JONKER Street, or Jalan Hang Jebat, is possibly the most famous road in Malacca, thanks to Jonker Walk which attracts hordes of tourists from all over the world.

But the road running parallel to it – Heeren Street – has a more interesting history and richer architectural charms.

Heeren Street, or Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, was once the place to live for those who made it to the top.

Originally called “Kampung Belanda” (Dutch Village), it ended up with the nickname of “Millionaires’ Row” because of its well-heeled residents.

The narrow street with houses adorned with ornately decorated façades was the choice neighbourhood for the prosperous Straits-born Chinese (Peranakan or Babas and Nyonyas) in the mid-19th and early 20th century.

These affluent folks competed with each other to build the most flamboyant of houses, many of which stand to this day.

Quite a number have been fully restored to their former glory and turned into highly popular boutique hotels, museums, galleries, restaurants and cafes.

Walking into these places is like going back in time to the era of Malacca’s occupation by the Dutch.

A classic example to visit is Number 8, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, a shophouse built in the 1700s.

It has been painstakingly renovated by Badan Warisan (Malaysia’s National Trust) with a grant from the US Embassy.

Entry is free but donations are welcome.

The grandest of them all: The Chee Mansion was built by the first chairman of the OCBC.

While Jonker Street (from the Dutch Jonghheer) was named after a place for “young noblemen” who had not quite made it to the upper level of nobility.

Heeren Street (originally Heeren straat), was for the “gentlemen” or “masters” in the upper crust of society.

The characteristic features of most buildings are high roofs, floors and corridors lined with intricate tiles, teak front doors carved with family names or mottos in gold calligraphy.

Most windows are also beautifully decorated with motifs while some homes even have decorated roofs with image of dragons, birds and flowers.

The houses on the street are rather narrow and small when viewed from the outside but are long and spacious inside.

This is because the houseowners then were taxed on the width of the buildings instead of the total area.

Most of them have open courtyards to provide ventilation and light. Some even have small wells to draw water or ponds to collect rainwater from the roof.

The street was home to famous Malacca Babas, including Tan Kim Seng, one of the pioneers in the development of Singapore, and Tan Chay Yan, who was Malaya’s first rubber planter in 1896.

Tan Kim Seng or Baba Kim Seng, who amassed a great fortune in Singapore, built a bridge across the Singapore River which is now named after him.

He also donated money for a bridge, named after him in Malacca, and for the famous Clocktower in front of Christ Church in the Dutch Square.

Tan Kim Seng’s stately ancestral home, built in 1822, is the present Hotel Puri.

When it was the home of Kim Seng, there was a menagerie behind with many animals, including a tiger.

The grandest house in “Millionaires’ Row” is the Chee Mansion, which stands majestically directly opposite Hotel Puri.

The breathtaking building is a Dutch era architectural gem, complete with a fairy-tale inspired watchtower.

It was built by tycoon and philanthropist Chee Swee Cheng, the first chairman of the Overseas Chinese Banking Corporation (OCBC).

As it was run almost entirely by the Baba’s in the old days, OCBC was jokingly referred to as Orang China Bukan China.

Chee Swee Cheng built the mansion at 117 Heeren Street as a dedication to his father, Chee Yam Chuan.

The Chee Mansion, also known as the Chee Yam Chuan Temple, is used as the family’s ancestral home.

But “Millionaires’ Row” bears the name of an outstanding fifth-generation Baba and one of the country’s illustrious early leaders.

Tun Tan Cheng Lock, who co-founded the MCA in 1949, was born at house number 111.

The dignified family home was where the country’s first Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman and Tan held many discussions before Merdeka.

His son, Tun Tan Siew Sin, was Malaya’s first Commerce and Indus try Minister before being the longest serving Finance Minister for 15 years.

He was also the third president of the MCA after his father and Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu.

It may not be as hectic as Jonker Street where the tourists to Malacca throng but Heeren Street oozes more history, old-world charm and provides amazing sights and stories.

MELAKA 2 MEGA PROJECTS IN THE WORKS

MELAKA (Aug 21, 2013): Two mega projects, The Melaka Gateway and Dinosaurs and Underwater World, to be built in Melaka, are expected to boost the state's gross domestic product (GDP) to more than RM6 billion.

Chairman of the State Economic Consultative Council (MPEN) Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam said The Melaka Gateway, to be constructed on a 209.6-hectare site at a cost of RM30 billion at Bandar Hilir, is expected to contribute RM6 billion to the GDP.

"This project is projected to generate about 15,000 job opportunities for locals, apart from increasing the tourist arrivals to 2.5 million annually," he told reporters here.

He said the project comprised a number of key components, including the construction of three man-made islands near Pulau Melaka, a shopping complex, hotel, condominium, Cultural Performance Complex (Melaka Impression), as well as a housing estate based on the concept of a cultural village.

He said the RM240 million Dinosaurs and Underwater World project will be realised on a 14.1-hectare site in Klebang and contribute RM48 million to Melaka's GDP.

Mohd Ali said this project comes complete with various public facilities such as food and beverage shops as well as souvenirs, while attracting 600,000 tourists annually.

He said the recreational park is also seen as capable of creating 1,000 job opportunities for the people of Melaka. In another development, Mohd Ali said the MPEN has proposed three steps to consolidate Melaka's economy in future.

He said it involved strengthening Melaka's Bumiputera-based companies, enhancing key infrastructure through the Straits of Melaka coastal highway and creating the 'Museum Tour' in the state.

"MPEN committee members have suggested that the state government study, identify and implement development, as well as assist selected Bumiputera-based companies to be mentored to become those with potential and competitiveness," he added.

He said the state government should also lobby the Federal government to continue the coastal highway as the project can provide an impact to the state's economic development, and the effort to make it a city-state.

Mohd Ali said the Museum Tour is aimed at enabling tourists to be offered attractive tourism packages to destinations throughout the state through the use of buses on a systematic basis as well as guides. – Bernama

Monday, August 19, 2013

CHANCE TO WIN DREAM HOLIDAY TO BALI FOR FOUR

19th. August 2013

Photographers are invited to unleash their creativity in a photographic contest for the chance to win a dream holiday to Bali, Indonesia.

Participants are require to capture the rich and unique heritage of Malacca.

The contest on August 24th. 2013 wich carries the theme Local Flavours is organised by the Avillion Hotel Group.

Contestants stand to win holidays at various destinations, spa package and a Canon camera.

The grand prize consists of a four-day, three night stay worth RM 7,050 at Villa Cinta, Sanur Beach in Bali for four people and a Canon EOS110D DSLR camera worth RM 1,699 to capture their gateway.

The other prize include free stays at the group's hotels in Idaman@Janda Baik in Pahang, Avillion Port Dickson water chalet in Negeri Sembilan, Avillion Admiral Cove executive studio in Negeri Sembilan and Avillion Legacy, Melaka.

To register, log on to www.facebook.com/avillionhotelgroup. Registration ends tomorrow.

Partipants have to pay a fee of RM 98 to enter the contest.

They will receive goodies such as a Canon Legria luggage strap, a photography talk by a Canon specialist worth RM 1,500 and lunch. By Kelly Koh, NST

ELECTRIC BUSES FOR MELAKA BEFORE CHINESE NEW YEAR 2014

Electric buses for Malacca

Posted on 18 August 2013 - 08:51pm Last updated on 18 August 2013 - 09:26pm Vathani Panirchellvum newsdesk@thesundaily.com

AYER KEROH (Aug 18, 2013): Malacca's plans of becoming a green technology city state steps closer with the advent of electric buses, scheduled to be launched before Chinese New Year next year.

Chief Minister Datuk Idris Haron said that for starters 10 buses will ply the World Heritage City of Bandar Hilir, giving a positive impact on the environment, according to a report in Melaka Hari Ini, a community newspaper.

"If this project is successful, Malacca will be the first state that uses electric buses as an initiative to improve the public transportation system in the state, making it comparable to other countries like the US and Japan. The use of the environmental-friendly electric buses will reduce the use of petrol and diesel, thus lowering the carbon footprint," he said.

Idris added that the project will give positive returns in the long run as the buses can fit up to 40 passengers and will reduce the usage of fuel as much as RM0.20 per km, bringing in a profit of RM0.49 per passenger to the government.

The buses can move up to 40km per hour, he said, adding that it is based on the town bus concept, with standing room for most, and seats prioritised for the elderly and people with disabilities.

Friday, August 16, 2013

BUKIT CHINA : A HILL STEEPED IN LEGEND AND HISTORY

Published: Friday August 16, 2013 MYT 12:00:00 AM Updated: Friday August 16, 2013 MYT 11:00:18 AM

Bukit China: A hill steeped in legend and history

BY M. VEERA PANDIYAN

VEERA@THESTAR.COM.MY

The Bukit China Chinese cemetery in Malacca is the oldest in the country.

Its name can be traced to a legendary Ming Dynasty princess who supposedly arrived from China to marry Mansur Shah, the sixth Sultan of Malacca who ruled Malacca from 1459 to 1477.

Bukit China (Chinese Hill) was originally an undulating jungle of three mounds — Bukit Tinggi, Bukit Gedong and Bukit Tempurong.

It apparently took on the name after the Sultan allowed the entourage of princess Hang Li Poh to settle around the foot of the main hill.

These days, there are doubts over the purported royal lineage of Hang Li Po, as there is no written evidence to show that she was indeed a princess.

The guesswork is that she might have been a daughter of one of the emperor’s concubines or even a royal handmaiden.

But there are no doubts about the special relationship between Malacca and China then.

According to the Ming Shi-lu (Veritable Records Of The Ming Dynasty), an envoy of Balimisura (Parameswara) went to China in 1405 to offer tribute and another arrived two years later, complaining about Siam’s aggression and seizure of his kingdom’s royal seal.

An example of past architecture at Bukit China. The following year, Ming’s renowned admiral Zheng He (Cheng Ho) was sent to Malacca.

Parameswara gave another tribute to the emperor the following year after Siam stopped intimidating his kingdom.

The records also note that Parameswara arrived at the emperor’s court on Aug 4, 1411 with his family of 540 followers and that he was treated with respect and showered with banquets and impressive presents during his stay.

As for Sultan Mansur Shah, the palace where he supposedly lived with all his wives, including Hang Li Po, was said to be at the foot of Bukit Melaka (today’s St Paul’s Hill).

There is now a replica of the palace, which houses the Malacca Cultural Museum. It was built using three types of hardwood — cengal, rasak and belian (for the roof) — based on what was written in Sejarah Melayu (Malay Annals).

It was written that the sultan ordered a well to be dug at Bukit China for the new immigrants. The well, Perigi Raja remains to this day and never dries up even during droughts.

Bukit China remained largely forested until the Portuguese built a chapel called Madre De Deus (Mother of God) and monastery at the top of the hill in 1581.

It was destroyed in an Achehnese attack in 1629. The Achehnese actually held Malacca for about eight months before the Portuguese won it back.

The monastery was rebuilt when the Achehnese were finally defeated with the deaths of prominent warriors, including Panglima Pidi whose grave, known as keramat panjang (long sacred grave) remains on Bukit China.

There are about 20 other Muslim graves nearby and the area used to be a favourite haunt of those seeking “spiritual help” for four-digit numbers during the 60s and early 70s.

In addition to the beach at Tanjung Kling, it was also an alternative site for the then popular Mandi Safar festival which was banned as “unIslamic” activities during the 80’s.

Bukit China became a Chinese cemetery in 1685 when Lee Wei King, the then “Kapitan China” of Malacca, bought the three hills from the Dutch and renamed them as “San Pao Shan” (Three Gems Hill or Three Protections Hill). He placed it under the trust of the Cheng Hoon Teng temple.

Reputedly the oldest remaining traditional Chinese burial ground in the world with 12,500 graves, Bukit China remained largely unknown and mostly overgrown until about this time of the year, 29 years ago.

All hell literally broke loose during the Hungry Ghosts Festival in 1984, when the Malacca Government announced its plans to develop the 42ha hill into a housing and commercial centre in July 1984.

The then Chief Minister, (now Tan Sri) Abdul Rahim Tamby Chik, gave three options — development of the hill solely by the Chinese community, joint development by the state and community or development by the state.

The plan sparked anger and outrage throughout the country, moving the diverse community to come together to preserve a heritage symbolising their earliest ancestors links to the country.

When the trustees of the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple conducted a survey to gauge public response on the development proposal, 553 associations and close to 300,000 people replied with a resounding no, against a mere 73 who agreed.

The country’s first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman, was among those against the plan, lending more weight to calls for its preservation.

Representatives of political parties urged the then PM (now Tun) Dr Mahathir Mohamad to intervene and resolve the politically explosive and racially divisive issue.

As Carolyn Cartier, professor of geography and urban studies at the University of Technology, Sydney noted in her book, Globalising South China, the Save Bukit China campaign achieved ethnic and class representation and became a national movement, the first to grow to such proportions in the history of the country.

The State government eventually relented and has since been promoting Bukit China as part of its rich cultural heritage.

Today, the hill has become a recreational ground where joggers have carved out a track between graves. It has also become a valuable green lung for the city, offering great views from the peak.

The Chinese living around the area, covering Jalan Bukit China, Lorong Bukit China, Jalan Temenggong, Kampung Bukit China and nearby Banda Kaba, are referred to as the “San Pao Ching” community, in reference to several old wells in the area, seven of which were said to be dug during the time of Zheng He.

In addition to a hike up the hill, among the must-see sights for tourists are the Poh San Teng temple, built in 1795 by another Kapitan China, Chua Su Cheong and the Chinese War Memorial, located next to it.

The cenotaph to remember those who were brutally killed during the Japanese Occupation consists of an obelisk inscribed with Chinese calligraphy mounted on a raised platform with a Kuomintang flag at the top.

Thousands were killed after Malacca fell to the Japanese on Jan 15, 1942. The horror stories include burying victims alive and the killing of babies by throwing them up into the air and stabbing them with bayonets as they fell.

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

MELAKA TO HOST WORLD TOURISM CONFERENCE 2013

Malaysia/Melaka To Host World Tourism Conference 2013

PUTRAJAYA, July 15 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Tourism and Culture together with the United Nations World Tourism Organisation and the state government of Melaka will organise the World Tourism Conference 2013 (WTC 2013).

The three-day conference will be held at the Equatorial Hotel, Melaka, from Oct 21, the ministry said in a statement today.

It said the main objective of the WTC 2013 is to discuss and address current and relevant issues related to the tourism industry, where the key areas for discussion would be on innovative marketing and directions for tourism product development.

Themed,"Global Tourism: Game Changer and Pace Setters", the conference is expected to bring together world leaders in tourism, high-level policymakers, specialists and experts from both the public and private sector to share experiences, while providing guidance for tourism development, the ministry said.

"Therefore, WTO 2013 should be attended by all travel and trade members in Malaysia, such as hoteliers, tourism officers, airlines and airport representatives, as well as tour operators among others, as they will get the opportunity to connect, share and learn during the event," it added.

It said registration for the conference is now open and the public can visit http://www.wtc2013malaysia.com for more details.

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

TOURISTS TO ENJOY FREE GUIDED TOURS IN MELAKA

18 June 2013| last updated at 11:55PM

Tourists to enjoy free guided tours in Malacca

By HANIS MAKETAB | news@nst.com.my

BOOSTING TOURISM: Money from Heritage Tax Fund will finance programme

MALACCA: THANKS to the state's Heritage Tax Fund, which now has RM2.9 million since it was introduced in April last year, tourists will enjoy free guided tours of Malacca's heritage trail.

Malacca Museum Corporation general manager Datuk Khamis Abas said the corporation would be organising the tours, which would be funded by the money collected from the heritage tax.

"The tours will take place every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

"Forty thousand ringgit has been allocated for them, which is for a one-year period from this month. "It pays the allowances of our tour guides."

The tours would cover the state's famous and popular attractions within the World Heritage site, such as the Malacca River, Stadhuys, Porta de Santiago, the Malacca Sultanate Palace and the Proclamation of Independence Memorial.

He said the heritage tax was collected by local city and municipal councils, and went towards initiatives related to tourism and heritage, such as publishing a directory of places to stay in Malacca, organising courses under the Malacca Tourism Academy and contributing to the state's hotel and homestay operators associations.

"Last year, RM2.3 million was collected, while this year about RM657,000 has been collected up to May 15," Khamis said after giving state Heritage and Youth Committee deputy chairman Datuk Norpipah Abdol a tour of the Malacca Conservation Centre in Jalan Bunga Raya yesterday.

He said the centre, which began operating last Monday, was open to the public. It focused on the conservation of historical buildings and artefact.

Khamis also said the centre would be used as a venue for lectures, talks and workshops.

The centre is managed by the corporation with the cooperation of the state World Heritage Office, Malacca Historical City Council, Merlimau Polytechnic and Malacca Islamic University College.

- See more at: http://www.nst.com.my/nation/general/tourists-to-enjoy-free-guided-tours-in-malacca-1.302305?cache=%253Fpage%253D0%252F7.197525%3Fkey%3DKuala+Lumpur%3Fkey%3DKuala+Lumpur%3Fpage%3D0#sthash.KFq9q6DZ.dpuf

MELAKA TAMING SARI TOWER LURES 3.3 MILLION VISITORS WITHIN 5 YEARS

Melaka Taming Sari Tower Lures 3.3 Million Visitors Within Five Years

MELAKA, June 15 (Bernama) -- The Melaka Taming Sari Tower here has managed to lure 3.3 million visitors with ticket collection totalling RM29.9 million over the first five years of its operation.

Chief Minister Datuk Idris Haron said it was an increase of 0.8 million visitors from the original target set when it was first opened in April 2008.

Over the first five months this year alone, a total of 227,107 visitors with ticket collection of RM2.4 million were recorded, he said.

He said it was an overwhelming achievement, and hence proved the determination of the management of Melaka Taming Sari Berhad (MTSB) in turning the 110m tall tower worth RM24 million into Melaka's popular tourism product.

"We believe that this tourist product can contribute to the more developed and competitive eco-tourism industry," he said after opening the 5th anniversary celebration of the tower here today.

Also present were MTSB chairman Datuk Mat Sirat Abu and chief executive officer Mazary Ahmad.

Idris said MTSB would also introduce a new tourism product soon, that is a 'reverse bungee', in a bid to diversify the tourism products at the tower.

However, he said the reverse bungee facility, which is expected to be built at the end of this year, must get prior approval from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) as it would be built on one of the world's heritage site.

"It is still at the discussion stage and we will seek advice and consultancy from the supplier and Unesco about the suitability of the location and height," he said.

At the event, Idris also launched the book published by MTSB titled 'Heritage Trail Melaka Mosques', which showcases the beauty of mosque architecture in Melaka, including at the Selat Mosque, Tengkera Mosque and Al-Azim Mosque.

-- BERNAMA

Thursday, June 13, 2013

MELAKA RIVER PROJECT NOW A MODEL FOR OTHERS

14 June 2013| last updated at 11:38PM

Sungai Melaka project a model for others

By Jason Gerald | nstjason@gmail.com

REHABILITATION: The once lifeless waterway has been turned into Malacca’s most lucrative tourism product

THE phrase "Everything began in Malacca" is not something which was just coined to attract tourism, but is in actual fact what this state has to offer to other states in Malaysia.

The birth of the nation is attributed to the glory of the Malacca sultanate in the 15th century, and Malacca is where the independence of Malaysia was first announced by the country's founding father, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al Haj at the Dataran Pahlawan in Banda Hilir.

Malacca has been a benchmark for many developments in the country after the state was steered into becoming a developed state -- recognised by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) -- and is now spearheading the nation's green technology initiatives.

And now, what was once famed as one of the busiest ports in the world, the Melaka River, is becoming a benchmark for the rehabilitation and beautification of rivers throughout the country.

Known as the Venice of the East in the 15th century, the waterway had slowly deteriorated and became one of the dirtiest rivers in the country till some 12 years ago.

In 2001, the state government, with assistance from the Federal Government, had embarked on the first phase of the Melaka River beautification project costing some RM200 million.

The first phase of the Melaka River rehabilitation project started at the tip of the river mouth to the Hang Tuah bridge which included the construction of two new jetties and an archway across the river.

The restoration and beautification project paid off handsomely, as now the once lifeless river has not only been revived but it has been turned into the most lucrative tourism product that Malacca has to offer.

The recent Sungai Melaka International River Festival created history when the Drainage and Irrigation Department director-general, Datuk Ahmad Husaini Sulaiman, said the State administration's success in turning the river into one of the finest in the country, region and also the world would be the main point of reference for the revival and beautification of all rivers in the country.

The effort taken by the Malacca government in beautifying the Melaka River has not only managed to turn the river into a commodity for tourism but also helped in mitigating floods.

Under the 10th Malaysia Plan all rivers in the country were allocated RM3.47 billion for flood mitigation works, rehabilitation and beautification exercise. Melaka alone was allocated RM285 million.

In Malacca's case, this money was not only used for flood mitigation works but also for the cleaning, beautification, and upgrading of the river system from the Sungai Melaka estuary right up to Malim.

This success of making Sungai Melaka into a living river is proposed to be replicated across the country.

Sungai Melaka is flanked by several delightful structures such as the Dutch or Red Square, traditional villages and other tourist attractions. In the second phase of its rehabilitation would start at the Hang Jebat bridge up to Batu Hampar, covering 5.2km.

The second phase would be divided into three main work packages; first would cover a 2.4km waterway from the Hang Jebat bridge to the Tun Razak bridge, followed by 1.2km from the Tun Razak bridge to the Melaka Sentral bridge, and the final package from the Melaka Sentral bridge to the Tidal Control Gate that stretches for 1.6km.

This would also include deepening the depth of the river, constructing walls and walkways along the river, landscapes, three water taxi stations at Taman Rempah and Jusco AEON, building unique bridges and beautifying the banks of the river.

Once the project is completed, the water quality of Sungai Melaka is expected to improve from class 111 barometer to class 11B by the year 2015.

The current success of the Melaka River rehabilitation and beautification project could also be seen through the Melaka River Cruise.

When the cruise started in 2006 there were only 56 visitors, but last year alone it attracted some 1.1 million passengers, and this year it is targeted that the Melaka River Cruise would attract some 1.4 million visitors.

Besides being a benchmark for rivers in Malaysia, the Malacca government is also aiming to work towards getting this event listed on the World Tourism Calendar of Events, similar to the San Antonio River festival in Texas, United States.

Read more: Sungai Melaka project a model for others - Columnist - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/opinion/columnist/sungai-melaka-project-a-model-for-others-1.299900#ixzz2WE8IVouO

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

PATENTS FOR MALACCA'S UNIQUE TRISHAWS

Patents for Malacca's unique trishaws

By Jason Gerald John New Straits Times Monday, Jun 10, 2013

MALACCA - THE famed Beca Melaka (trishaw) which have been plying the Historical City since the 1920s will soon be patented by the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO).

The move to patent the Beca Melaka is aimed at preventing the unique designs and decorations, which differ from one trishaw to another, from being reproduced.

State Agriculture and Entrepreneur Development chairman Datuk Hasan Abdul Rahman said each trishaw was unique in its own way as the decorations and lights on the pedal-powered three-wheelers spoke for the innovation and creativity of the owner.

"A patent gives the owner an exclusive right to stop others from manufacturing, using or selling the owner's invention in Malaysia without the owner's consent or permission.

"There are some 250 beca under the Persatuan Beca Pelancongan Negeri Melaka (PBPNM) in the state, which are used mainly for tourism purposes. We want each and every one of them to be patented to protect this unique heritage.

"PBPNM mooted this idea to protect their innovative creation through MyIPO and the state government fully supported this move," he said after launching the Beca Melaka Parade, held in conjunction with National Intellectual Property Day 2013 and the International Melaka River Festival at the Melaka River Square in Jalan Merdeka here yesterday.

Present were MyIPO chairman, Datuk Abdul Manan Ismail, MyIPO director-general, Datuk Azizan Mohamad Sidin, and PBPNM chairman, Capt (Rtd) Khalid Ahmad.

Hasan said that with the patent, each trishaw rider could also reap numerous benefits including monetary gains through the right marketing strategy, sales of patent, licensing and franchising, not only locally but in other parts of the world as well.

On a related matter, Hasan called on trishaw riders to continue preserving the tradition of providing trishaw services to tourists as well as help promote the state's tourism industry.

MELAKA PLANS YACHTING HUB

YACHTING HUB: State plans to build marinas to attract 20pc of seafarers who pass by straits every year

MALACCA: THE Malacca government is hoping to attract 20 per cent of more than 3,000 yachts passing through the Straits of Malacca each year with the construction of marinas along the coasts of Klebang and Tanjung Kling.

The building of the marinas would be a private sector initiative with the support of the state government in terms of land, basic infrastructure and policies.

Chief Minister Datuk Idris Haron said the state, once a famed port of call for sailors from all corners of the world, had the potential to see its glorious past resurrected.

"I was told that at least 3,000 yachts pass through the Straits of Malacca annually and if we can get 500 of them to stop here, it would not only boost tourism but also create an economic spin off for the local economy.

"The sailors travelling in their own yachts are in a league of their own and they will definitely contribute to our economy.

"With the marinas, we would also provide services such as maintenance for their vessels, medical attention, food and beverages and also other facilities to attract them," he said after launching two new Catamarans, a 50-footer and a 33-footer, built by local boat manufacturer, Boat Explorer Sdn Bhd, at the Seafarer Restaurant in Klebang here yesterday.

Idris said Klebang and Tanjung Kling could be the next "Gold Coast" in southeast Asia.

"In Malacca, there are many areas which could be turned into marinas but we have to be selective and make it happen. Just look at Sungai Melaka, once an eyesore, it is now the most visited tourist attraction in the state.

"However, before implementing the marina projects, we have to conduct a proper study."

Asked if the new state administration had any plans to salvage sunken treasures believed to lie off the coast of Malacca, Idris said no proper and credible research had been done on the possible locations.

"If there are pictures of these treasures and proper research done on the vessels, then we do not mind embarking on an exploration to look for them."

Idris also thanked Boat Explorer, a branded recreational boat builder, for helping to promote the state among its customers.

Read more: CM: Malacca can be the next Gold Coast - General - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/nation/general/cm-malacca-can-be-the-next-gold-coast-1.298497#ixzz2W1RBkIvC

Monday, May 27, 2013

ONE MILLION VISITORS EXPECTED

A million visitors expected for Malacca River Fest

MALACCA: A million visitors from all over the country and abroad are expected to enjoy the thrills and join the fun-filled Malacca River Festival that starts here on June 1.

The month-long festival, introduced in 2007, has proven to be one of Malacca’s main annual events with the number of visitors growing each year, said Chief Minister Datuk Idris Haron.

“We have all the reasons to expect a huge turnout, further boosted by the rebranding of the event, known previously as Pesta Sungai Melaka,” he said after opening the International Scout Jamboree in Tehel near here yesterday.

“The festival is a crowd-puller as, beside the aesthetics of the rehabilitated Malacca River, there will be various activities organised by both government agencies and the private sector throughout the festival,” he said.

Idris added that this year’s festival would also showcase a river procession of decorated boats and fireworks.

On another development, the Chief Minister said the Malacca and Sumatra governments had agreed to have a new gateway here that would allow easy daily travel between the two territories.

Under the proposal, Indonesians would be able to travel here by sea to work and return home after their working hours.

“Indonesians can come to work in Malacca and return home, like Malaysians from Johor working in Singapore,” he said.

MALAYSIA FIRST CHINESE PAGODA MOSQUE

New Straits Times Monday, May 27, 2013 MALACCA - Malaysia's first Chinese pagoda-inspired mosque will be completed in April next year.

State Chinese Muslim Association (Pertim) chairman Mohd Mansor Yap Abdullah said the mosque, estimated to cost about RM7.5 million (S$3.13 million), would be located at Krubong, near here, and would not only cater to Chinese Muslims in the state, but all Muslims.

He said the mosque, which was being built on a 2.4ha site, would be a combination of the architectural designs of several mosques in Beijing, Shanghai and Xian.

"This mosque will be the first in the country which will incorporate the pagoda in its design.

"Hopefully, it will become a tourist attraction. I also hope that the mosque will open doors for the Chinese community to have closer ties with the Muslim community, fostering better understanding between both communities."

Mansor added that the mosque would implement a natural ventilation concept.

"The main prayer space will be able to cater up to 2,000 Muslims at one time, while the outer prayer space will have room for up to 3,000 ummah," he said after visiting the mosque's construction site here yesterday.

Construction of the mosque's main building began earlier this year through an allocation of RM5.9 million from the Federal Government, which was approved by Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin in October 2011. An additional RM1.6 million was later contributed towards the project from donations, as well as a state government fund set up by former chief minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam. Mansor said once the mosque was completed, Pertim's office would be moved there to facilitate the association's activities and programmes for the community. "The mosque will also offer facilities, such as a funeral rites room, meeting rooms and a library. "The Chinese Muslim community here is excited about the mosque, as their dream of having a Chinese pagoda-inspired mosque will soon be realised."

BARSI CELEBRATIONS IN MELAKA

Barsi celebration for revered local Sikh saint in Malacca

By Hanis Maketab | news@nst.com.my

MALACCA: More than 50,000 worshippers gathered at the Gurdwara Sahib Malacca here today to commemorate the 41st anniversary of Sant Baba Sohan Singh Ji’s death, which took place May 24-26.  

Also known as “Barsi”, the celebration is the largest Sikh event in the world outside Punjab, with Sikhs from as far as Europe, Australia and the United States making the annual pilgrimage here. During Barsi, the Sri Guru Granth Sahib (Sikh Holy Book) will be recited from start to finish, which normally takes three days and two nights to complete.

Barsi 2013 organising chairman Datuk Dr Mahinder Singh said about 10 per cent of the visitors who came for the event annually, were foreigners.

“The event is not only for Sikhs – we welcome anyone who would like to join in the celebrations and learn more about the Sikh religion and culture,” he said. 

People of various races and religions were seen donning the traditional headscarves and took off their shoes as a sign of respect while in certain areas of the temple.

The late Sant Sohan Singh was an eminent Sikh priest who was born in Punjab in 1902. He dedicated his life to spreading Sikhism in Malaysia and Singapore and was declared a saint after his death in Malacca in 1972.

Monday, May 20, 2013

IMPRESSION MELAKA TO BE READY BY END 2014

Impression Melaka Launched as Part of the Overseas Expansion Plan of the "Impression" Series

BEIJING, May 16, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Impression Melaka was launched at the Beijing Hotel on the afternoon of May 15. Present at the press conference were the Ambassador of Malaysia to China Datuk Iskandar Sarudin, Ambassador of China to Malaysia Datuk Chai Xi, Chief Director of the "Impression" Series Ms. Wang Chaoge , and PTS Impression SDN BHD CEO Mr. Boo Kuang Loon. The event marked the official launch of Impression Melaka, the first foreign leg of the large-scale live-action show of the "Impression" Series, which is a new cultural and creative brand of China.

The signing ceremony was held in a typical Chinese way. PTS CEO Mr. Boo Kuang Loon and Chief Director Ms. Wang Chaoge stamped the scroll of Impression Melaka with a Chinese seal together, which marked the launch of the program.

The Ambassador of Malaysia to China Datuk Iskandar Sarudin observed that Melaka had a long history with China. Over 600 years ago, the Chinese navigator Zheng He visited Melaka several times during his voyages, and built a bridge between the two nations. He pointed out that Malaysia needed a unique, world-class cultural program like the Impression Series to help with the development of its local tourism, and increase the international reputation of the city. The federal, state, and municipal government will provide full support for Impression Melaka. The Ambassador of China to Malaysia Datuk Chai Xi said that the year 2014 marks the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia and Impression Melaka is sure to be an important part of the celebration.

Chief Director Ms. Wang Chaoge said that Impression Melaka, as her 10th "Impression" event, will make new breakthroughs while continuing the tradition of the Impression Series to introduce to the world a real Melaka. Mr. Boo Kuang Loon explained that he grew up in the ancient city of Melaka, and had always dreamed of introducing the beautiful and magnificent city to the world. After years of investigation and research, he decided that the Impression Series was the one that could help him realize his dream. That was why he invited the team of the Impression Series to Melaka. He stressed that Impression Melaka would become a beautiful pearl of Melaka, and a new mark of the city's culture and tourism.

Malaysian investment development authority director Datuk Ng Peng Hay described the situation of Melaka, Malaysia as having the best economic record in Asia, becoming the third largest economy in Southeast Asia and playing an important role in Malaysia's economic development. Besides, Melaka is also a historic city with a rich cultural heritage. The Impression Melaka will show Melaka's rich unique history and cultural heritage through artistic creation, and become the new cultural tourism project of Melaka, which will play an important role for Melaka's sustainable economic development and inheritance of history and culture.

The Impression Series launched its first live-action show, Impression Liu Sanjie, in 1998, which turned out to be one of the greatest initiatives of the performance market of the world as well as China, with artistic and technical breakthroughs, real landscape as the scene, modern artistic designs, and splendid visual effects. The Impression Series has now grown into the No. 1 live-action show brand of China after the following eight events, including Impression Lijiang and Impression West Lake.

The "Impression" team chose Melaka as the first stop of its overseas expansion because it's one of the few historic cities in Southeast Asia, and one of earliest ports of the world that bridges the western and the eastern part of the world. It embraces immigrants from both the West and the East, and generates a unique culture demonstrating characteristics of different countries, including languages, religions, and customs. Still preserving the ancient look, the city was included in the UNESCO "World Heritage List."

Impression Melaka, as the 10th event of the Impression Series, will open in Melaka at the end of 2014.

MELAKA TO DO AWAY WITH OVERHEAD ELECTRICITY LINES

Monday May 20, 2013

Malacca to do away with overhead power cables

MALACCA: The historic state is doing away with overhead electricity lines and cables for safety and aesthetic reasons.

Chief Minister Datuk Wira Idris Haron said existing overhead cables in the city’s rural and urban areas would gradually be replaced with underground cables or have these routed to run between buildings.

“Besides being an eyesore, overhead electricity cables and lines are susceptible to many external interferences.

“Factors such as weather, air hazard and accidental impact with poles may cause breakage or stress to the transmission lines, posing danger to buildings and people.

“It’s good that we do away with it,” he said after visiting the state Tenaga Nasional Berhad headquarters in Banda Kaba here.

Idris, an electrical engineer by training, said the state TNB had been tasked to lead the special Street Lighting Maintenance and Management Committee to provide the technological expertise and consultancy to replace the overhead cables.

“The work will be carried out in collaboration with the state Public Works Department, local councils and other technical groups,” he said.

Street lamps and decorative lightning posing a danger to the public should also be quickly taken down to avoid any untoward incident, said Idris.

“The public should play a role by informing TNB on any issue or disruption to electricity supply,” he said.

Idris also noted that according to TNB’s System Average Inter-ruption Duration Index, Malacca’s average of 35 minutes/user last year was one of the best in the country.

Tuesday, April 30, 2013

MELAKA RIVER INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL 2013

Melaka River International Festival 2013 from 25 May - 30 June 2013

Inspired by the San Antonio River Festival in USA, Melaka International River Festival 2013 is back for the whole month of June.

Among the highlights include a water sports fiesta, dragon boat competitions and decorative floats parade.

With more than 100 events prepared, this well-known state tourism event is expected to draw not less than 800,000 tourists. One of the famous event will be the Annual Melaka Dragonboat race where international teams are expected to participate.

For details, log into : www.melakariverfestival.com

Sunday, April 21, 2013

RM400 MILLION CRUISE TERMINAL IN MELAKA

Monday April 22, 2013

Malacca expects RM400mil cruise terminal and others to drive its growth By B K SIDHU bksidhu@thestar.com.my

Malacca Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Bin Mohd Rustam during the interview at Seri Bendahara, Malacca. MALACCA: The development of a RM400mil marina jetty terminal in Malacca for cruise liners is in the works, one of many projects lined up to drive the state's growth.

Malacca was eyeing RM8bil of investments this year RM3bil and RM5bil for manufacturing and services sectors, respctively, Malacca chief minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam told StarBiz.

He said the manufacturing sector would create 6,000 jobs this year and the services sector, 2,000.

Last year, investments into the state totalled RM5.3bil. And in 2011, RM4.3bil was secured for the manufacturing sector.

Though on average local investments had outpaced that of foreign, the converse had been true for some years now, Ali Rustam said. The state has 26 industrial parks.

He said that in the past 12 years till 2012, the state government had managed to secure RM29bil worth of investments, of which RM20.46bil was foreign.

In the last few years, gross domestic product stood at between 5% and 6%, while the unemployment rate was at 0.7% and poverty, 0.5%.

Ali Rustam said for this year, he expected RM800mil in investments from US-based Guardian Industries a global float-glass maker to set up a high-technology glass products manufacturing plant in Jasin; a RM1.8bil solar thin film plant by US-based WNK Solar; and RM500mil worth of small projects for the manufacture of electrical and electronics as well as warehousing and automation.

“The groups are in the process of getting the various approvals to invest in Malacca,” he said.

Earlier, US-based Sunpower Corp had committed to invest RM3.7bil, of which RM2.4bil had already been pumped into a solar panel plant that has started operations. This year, the company is expected to invest the balance RM1.3bil to expand operations.

“Our focus is on the K-Economy and high technology, and our manufacturing is all high-tech. We also now have investments in green and biotechnology. Our manufacturing and services sector, tourism and health tourism are strong,” Ali Rustam said.

On tourism, he said with the increasing numbers of tourists coming to Malacca every year, plans were in place to build more resorts and hotels, an underwater world and a theme park.

“We are talking to Eden Enterprises for the Seaworld/Underwater world project and with an Indonesian party for the theme park project,” Ali Rustam said.

Two new specialist hospitals in Ayer Keroh and Kelebang also have been planned. They would be developed by local companies.

On the marina jetty terminal, Ali Rustam said it would be undertaken by Kejuruteraan Asas Jaya Sdn Bhd on a 121.81ha site.

“The jetty would be built for RM100mil and the needed land would be reclaimed for RM300mil. All these are initial investments,” he said.

This development will facilitate cruise liners docking at least twice weekly at the jetty. Each liner carries about 3,000 passengers. “Even if each passenger spends RM100 a day in Malacca, the spillover business activities would be huge over time,” he noted.

Tourist arrivals in the state in 2000 was 1.6 million, and rose to 12 million in 2011. Last year, the number increased to 13 million and Ali Rustam expects a steep rise with the docking of the cruise liners.

“That is also why we need more hotels and resorts to cater to this new growth,” he said.

The jetty terminal should be completed by 2015.

Malacca also made the New York Times' list of 45 cities to be visited in the world this year. This could be attributed to its World Heritage City status granted by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation in 2008, a report said.

Ali Rustam has been the Chief Minister since December 1999 and has, over the years, managed to make Malacca more attractive to investors, for instance, initiating a one-stop approval centre to facilitiate investor needs and requests.

Sunday, April 14, 2013

MALACCA HIDDEN TREASURE

Email Print 06 April 2013| last updated at 11:29PM

Malacca's 'hidden treasure'

By KELLY KOH LING MIN | streets@mediaprima.com.my

FOR LOCAL TOURISTS: Walking tour celebrates city’s cultural diversity

MALACCA: NESTLED in the heart of this historical city's Jonker Street area is Harmony Street (Jalan Tukang Besi), which is a reflection of Malaysia's cultural and religious diversity.

This hidden treasure is home to some of the country's oldest places of worship for the Muslims, Buddhists, and Hindus. These are the Kampung Keling Mosque, the Cheng Hoon Teng temple and the Sri Payyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple. To help today's young people, aged between 18 and 28 years, get to know these hidden treasures, a tour on foot dubbed Suci-suci Melaka is being organised.

The tour covers a total of eight places of worship, beginning with the ones at Harmony Street. Suci-suci Melaka project assistant, Lew Pik Svonn, said the project aimed to provide greater insight on such places of worship and enrich the participants with more knowledge of these different religions.

"A friend once told me that you can trace the history of cultures through places of worship. "If that is true, then Malacca town was and still is one of the most culturally diverse towns in Malaysia because there are churches, mosques, as well as Hindu, Taoist and Buddhist temples, all having co-existed for the past 200 years," she said.

"As Malaysians, we are proud to live in a multicultural society but even after centuries of co-existence, we still know so little about each other."

Lew hoped the walking tour can strengthen community relationships and understanding, as well as promote respect between people of different faiths in Malaysia through the perspective of young Malaccans. The two-and-a-half hour tour of the eight places of worship covers the history, beliefs and practices associated with these places.

Designed mainly for local tourists, Lew said the free walking tour included food, community performances and photography.

"Along the way, participants can sample free local delicacies such as Nyonya kuih and community performances by the Malacca Teo Chew Association's Chinese orchestra and a youth band from the Tamil Methodist Church," he said. "There will also be an exhibition of 200 photographs showcasing life in Harmony Street, along with a T-shirt and bag-printing station and free postcards to be given out."

The organising committee, divided into 11 youth volunteer teams, spent two months conducting research with local folks on the different places of worship.

The walking tour is on this Sunday, from 8am to 2pm. It starts from Jalan Tukang Besi behind Hard Rock Cafe in Jonker Street.

For more information, visit www.rumahibadatkita.com or http://www.facebook.com/events/450741081672823/.

Volunteers who helped organise the Suci-Suci Melaka walking tour are also members of the Projek Rumah Ibadat Kita group.

- See more at: http://www.nst.com.my/streets/central/malacca-s-hidden-treasure-1.249178#sthash.GItEkaWU.dpuf

Monday, April 8, 2013

DATARAN PAHLAWAN UNDERGOING EXPANSION WORKS IN 2013

Dataran Pahlawan at Bandar Hilir is undergoing a complete expansion works. When completed, additional shop spaces will be added and expanded.

By end of 2013, we will see a new look for Dataran Pahlawan.

MELAKA CITY DAY ON 15TH. APRIL 2013

Melaka City will celebrate her birthday on 15th. April 2013. Melaka City has come a long way and visitors are coming in droves to Melaka during the weekend. Last Saturday night, I witnessed dozens of tour buses parked along Stadthuys. Tourists from overseas and outside Melaka were visiting Melaka. It was amazing seeing so many tour buses within a small area.

Certainly, the proclaimation of Melaka and Georgetown as Heritage cities of UNESCO since 2008 has a tremendous impact on both cities. In Melaka, a large number of budget hotels, international hotels and boutique hotels have sprouted around the city to cater for visitors and tourists. Some heritage buildings are converted into hotels and you can even find a quaint lodge at Jalan Kampung Jawa. This small hotel was recommended by Tripadvisor as well.

Monday, March 25, 2013

MALACCA IMPRESSIONS BY END 2014

Malacca all set to make a huge Impression

MALACCA: An outdoor performance combining spectacular, high-tech lighting with natural scenery is set to make its debut in Malacca by the end of 2014.

Under an MoU signed between PTS Impression Sdn Bhd and Impression Wonder Arts Co. Ltd of China, the performance – part of the “Impression” series – in Malacca will be the first to be held outside China.

Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen, who witnessed the signing, said the Impression series would unveil a pool of local performers as well as provide job opportunities for locals.

“Its debut in Malaysia is considered a dream come true for me as I always wanted to have the performance held here following the splendid show during the Beijing Olympics in 2008, which was also choreographed by the company’s director, Wang Chao Ge.

“The presence of the eminent entertainment company will give the country, particularly Malacca, a big-bang effect,” she said.

TOURISTS DRAW TO MALACCA ATTRACTIONS

Thursday March 21, 2013

Attractions in Malacca a major tourist draw

Historical landmark: The Stadthuys and Christ Church are two popular landmarks in Malacca town. MALACCA, a Unesco world heritage site, must have among the most number of places to visit in the country.

Travel portal Trip Advisor has recommended 51 attractions in Malacca, including the Baba-Nyonya Heritage Museum, No. 8 Heeren Street Heritage Centre, Jonker Street, Cheng Hoong Teng Temple, Cheng Ho Cultural Museum, Sri Poyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple, Malacca River and Stadthuys.

It is also a common sight to see streets in the city and the famed Portuguese Square brimming with foreign visitors. World-class hotels and entertainment outlets have also mushroomed in Malacca over the last two decades.

Chinese, Portuguese, Arab, Indian, Dutch and English influences have made the city more fascinating. Visitors are also enthralled by the unique culture of the Peranakan and Chitty communities.

Sunday, March 24, 2013

OLD CATHAY CINEMA TO BE CONVERTED TO PANGGUNG BANGSAWAN

The former Cathay Cinema at Jalan Munshi Abdullah is being renovated into a Panggung Bangsawan. The area was recently boarded up and the notice board was erected. Hopefully, live, creative cultural shows can then be staged there for locals and tourists. We can highlight our diverse cultures, songs and arts.

Monday, March 4, 2013

TOURISM MELAKA ATTENDS MALAYSIA INTERNATIONAL TOURISM BLOGGER CONFERENCE

Tourism Melaka attended the 2nd Malaysia International TOURISM BLOGGER conference at KLCC this morning.

The conference was officially opened by YB Datu Ng Yen Yen, the Minister of Tourism Malaysia. During her keynote address, she advised Malaysian bloggers to create and maintain creative tourism blogs on Malaysia for global reach. The Tourism Malaysia ministry wants to engage the social media to increase our visitor arrivals from 25 million in 2012 to 30 million in 2020. More work need to be done if we were to reach this level in the coming years.

A Group photo just after the Opening of MIBCA

Tuesday, February 26, 2013

JURASSIC PARK IN MELAKA

Melaka plans RM200m Jurassic Park News  2013-02-26 11:33

MELAKA, Feb 25 (Bernama) -- Melaka plans to build a Jurassic Park, a dinosaur theme park, costing RM200 million at the 1Malaysia Square here, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam.

He said the park, the first tour of its kind in Asia, which would showcase 200 species of dinosaurs through hydraulic and electronic methods, was expected to draw over one million tourists a year.

The Jurassic Park, which will be built on a 12.1 ha site by Yayasan Melaka and Eden Incorporation Berhad, will two years to be completed after the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding in March, he told reporters after attending a briefing on the projects at Seri Negeri here today. Mohd Ali said a 60.7 ha site next to the Jurassic Park at the 1Malaysia Square had also been earmarked for the construction of the Melaka Sea World which would have the largest whale aquarium in the country.

Other projects earmarked for the 1Malaysia Square are a RM2 million Malaysia Map Square, 21 bus restaurants and 20 bus chalets costing RM2.7 million, and three football fields costing RM1.4 million.

Monday, February 18, 2013

KL SINGAPORE HIGH SPEED RAIL LINK BY 2020

Singapore, Malaysia to build rail link

From: AAP February 19, 2013 4:17PM

SINGAPORE and Malaysia announced that they will build a high-speed rail link between the city-state and Kuala Lumpur with a target to complete it around 2020.

"This is a strategic development in bilateral relations that will dramatically improve the connectivity between Malaysia and Singapore," said a statement issued after a meeting between Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and his Malaysian counterpart Najib Razak.

"It will usher in a new era of strong growth, prosperity and opportunities for both countries. It will facilitate seamless travel between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, enhance business linkages and bring the peoples of Malaysia and Singapore closer together."

The statement said the two leaders tasked a joint ministerial committee to look into the details and implementation of the project.

Webmaster: Certainly good news for Malacca as well because the high speed rail link will come to Melaka. More tourists and Singaporeans will want to stay in Melaka. Bad news will be more expensive homes in Melaka. Singaporeans and KLites can commute from Melaka to Singapore in 1 hour or 45 minutes to KL.

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

ZHENG HE RETURNS TO MELAKA

Wednesday January 30, 2013

Zheng He ‘returns’ to Malacca By R.S.N.MURALI murali@thestar.com.my

Epic voyage: A replica of the vessel helmed by Zheng He in Jonker Walk, Malacca. MALACCA: Legend has it that Admiral Zheng He and his armada left his home port of Nanjing in China for their epic voyage to India in the Year of the Snake in the 1400s. Along the way they stopped at Malacca.

To mark the auspicious year of his voyage, the Chinese community will display a huge replica of the ship used by the admiral in the city's world-famous Jonker Street, touted as the pulse of the community here.

Measuring 30m in length and 23m-high, it weighs close to two tonnes and resembles the original Chinese junk used by Zheng He in his sea travels.

Two cranes hoisted the replica to its above-ground berth on Friday night.

State MCA chief Datuk Gan Tian Loo said the replica, assembled by local craftsmen, would be displayed on two pillars that support the artificial junk, the names of the countries the admiral had sailed to.

Zheng He had reputedly sailed to 30 nations across Asia and Africa.

Gan said the craftsmen had incorporated intricate designs from the original vessel into the replica.

“It will be the icon of this historic city during the celebrations,” he said, adding thousands of visitors are expected to view the boat during the festive season.

“The city is ready to welcome the Year of the Snake in style, with carnivals and shows to mark the auspicious event,” he said, adding that Zheng He's boat will complement the 1Malaysia dragons that adorn Jonker Street to mark the outgoing Year of the Dragon.

One of the dragons, dubbed the Prosperity Dragon, measures 121m-long, and is the longest outdoor dragon effigy in Malaysia.

The Harmony Dragon comes a close second at 91m.

Meanwhile, Temple Street , also known as Harmony Street in the old section of Malacca city, was lit with hundreds of red lanterns and coloured lights on Saturday.

Several arches and billboards with festive greetings and messages already festoon Jonker Street.

Hundreds jammed the streets in the historical hub as Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam led a team of community leaders that included MCA vice-president Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai and Jonker Walk committee adviser Datuk Wira Gan Boon Leong to light the lanterns to usher in the new year.

Earlier, several lion dance troupes, musicians, dancers, performers and entertainers, showcased their talents in various performances to entertain the public and foreign tourists.

Sunday, January 20, 2013

SAFARI STYLE FOR 2ND. PHASE MELAKA RIVER BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT

Second Phase Of Melaka River Beautification Project To Be Safari-style

MELAKA, Jan 17 (Bernama) -- The second phase of the Melaka Beautification and Cleanliness Project will be developed according to the safari concept to attract tourists, Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam said.

He said the RM285 million project, a continuity to the first phase, famous for its river cruise, would incorporate elements of fauna and flora in the area covering six kilometres.

"The first phase of the Melaka River beautification project has been drawing more than one million visitors yearly, which has also generated up to RM9 million in revenue. In the second phase, improvements are made by applying the safari concept, similar to that found along the Singapore River," he said.

Speaking to reporters after the closing of the Water Treating Technology Workshop at Casa Del Rio, here today, Mohd Ali said several species of animals would be propagated along the route and colourful trees planted on the river banks and along the waterways.

The second phase project launched on May 21, last year, which stretches from Taman Rempah and the Hang Jebat bridge to Melaka Sentral, would have river banks protective features, walkways and water taxis, other than landscape beautification.

On the workshop, Mohd Ali said it was suggested that the state government use the oil and gas cleaning technology to improve the cleanliness of Melaka River.

"The cleanliness of the river is now at level three and through this technology, we hope it can be improved to level two, that will enable the river to breed certain type of fish and be safe for recreational activities," he said.

Mohd Ali said he would apply to the Ministry of Energy, Green Technology and Water to fund a pilot project using the technology, which was estimated to cost RM800,000 to RM1 million.

Tuesday, January 8, 2013

MELAKA GOVERNMENT TO COPY TRANSCRIPTS IN EUROPE

Melaka govt to copy thousands of BM transcripts in Europe

Posted on 3 January 2013 - 08:57pm

Last updated on 3 January 2013 - 09:56pm

MELAKA (Jan 3, 2013): The Melaka Government wants to collect tens of thousands of Bahasa Melayu manuscripts in Europe as sources of reference for research and development of the language through the International Malay Letters Centre of Excellence which was set up, here, today.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam said, a visit would be made to the Leiden University, the premier Bahasa Melayu centre in the world and the oldest university in Holland, to seek its cooperation, on the matter.

"The maiden effort to gather copies of the manuscripts and other collections is to boost Bahasa Melayu to an era of excellence as found during the Melaka Sultanate," he said after the launching of the centre in Air Keroh, here, today.

Also present were Melaka State Secretary Datuk Wira Omar Kaseh, Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) Board of Governor chairman Prof Datuk Dr Md Salleh Yaapar and DBP director-general DBP Dr Awang Sariyan.

According to Mohd Ali, the centre which was operating on the 10th floor of the Melaka Foundation Building, and headed by a director, was also proposed as the organiser of seminars and workshops for Bahasa Melayu.

Other than Leiden, Mohd Ali said, the Melaka Government would also work with other European nations such as England and Portugal to copy the Bahasa Melayu transcripts and documents in their collections.

Meanwhile, Md Salleh, who was visiting professor at Leiden University from 2003 to 2006, said the university had almost 100,000 Bahasa Melayu manuscripts since the Dutch invaded the Malay Archipelago in the 17th century.

He said, the effort of the state government in setting up the centre of excellence, would give a positive impact in the expansion of Bahasa Melayu, and economic returns in the long run. – Bernama