Special Events In Melaka

The list of festivals and religious observances in Melaka is an excellent indicator of Melaka’s diversity. 

1.Thaipusam: Hindu devotees honour Lord Muruga with a sombre parade that ends at Sri Subramaniam Deasthanan Temple in Batu Berendam. Here followers ceremoniously tout wooden arches and undergo ritualistic piercing to cleanse themselves of sin. These rituals can become quite intense, and those who participate go into a trance that helps them cope with the experience.

 2.Palm Sunday: along with Good Friday and Easter processions, Palm Sunday is celebrated at St Peter's Church. Participants carrying palm fronds follow a life-sized statue of Jesus which is paraded along the city’s streets during the early hours.

3.Good Friday: more sombre than Palm Sunday, the Good Friday candlelight vigil is held within the grounds of St Peter's. Enormous candles are lit and a statue of Jesus is carried around church grounds as devotees bearing candles sing hymns and recite the rosary.

4.Malacca Carnival: this celebration lasts for a month and showcases traditional dances and a variety of expositions covering local tourism, industry and art.

 
5.Malaysia Fest: two weeks in September are dedicated to shameless self-promotion on behalf of shopping centres and hotels across Melaka. Exhibits highlight local handicrafts and cuisine.

THE FINGER-LICKING-GOOD-FOOD IN MELAKA :)

PINEAPPLE TARTS, TRADITIONAL BISCUITS & WAH AIK SHOEMAKER

BUKIT CINA CENDOL & MEE REBUS

Fancy eating a bowl of cendol served near to a cemetery? This is the famous place. But now moved into a roofed premise named Restoran Sakina by the main road, the horrific chance of sighting shadows from the netherworld during your cendol jaunt could be significantly reduced. The Mee Campur was a moderately spicy version, yet leaving not much of an impression. The Cendol was only passable though; a heaven-sent on a sunny day but far from the best that Melaka can offer.


KLEBANG ORIGINAL COCONUT SHAKE

Can you imagine lining up with dozens of people, or seated and wait for a very long time just to savour a cup of Coconut Shake? Essentially consisting of coconut water, coconut flesh and vanilla ice-cream blended with ice and served in plastic cups, the crowd literally go ga-ga over this refreshing blend!


PERKAMPUNGAN IKAN BAKAR TERAPUNG UMBAI

East-bound, a slight distance further than Portuguese Settlement will lead you to the Malay-style of grilled fish and other seafood in Umbai. Generally cheaper (not dirt-cheap though) than the Portuguese version, with variations to the sauces and cooking methods used, a journey from Melaka town to Umbai can take you half an hour or so. We picked a grilled siakap (barramundi) that came very fresh and succulent, but definitely more than enough for two. The crispy batter-coated fried calamari was excellent too, but the chili mussels was a disappointment. The seafood here can be served with white rice, or like us, with packets of nasi lemak and a deadly sambal kicap with chopped cili padi.

TAMAN MINI MALAYSIA & MINI ASEAN

The Taman Mini Malaysia cultural park is located a few kilometres outside of Melaka, near the town of Ayer Keroh. If you have an interest in traditional architecture and ways of life, this is a great place to go exploring. Each of the homes represents the architectural style of the 13 states in Malaysia and is furnished with various items, arts and crafts which depict the culture of each state.

Inside each house, you can find a range of genuine handicrafts originating from each state or county. The life-like figures ‘inhabiting’ each charming home on stilts are garbed in their respective traditional costumes.
Other attractions in the park include weekly cultural shows and traditional games. Basically, this is an opportunity to see all Malaysian architecture and heritage in a short all-encompassing outing. And it’s a nice break from the hustle and bustle of nearby urban Melaka.

ZOO MELAKA

Melaka Zoo is situated at Ayer Keroh, approximately 13 kilometres from downtown Melaka. It is the second largest zoo in Malaysia. The zoo’s total area is approximately 54 acres.

It has in its possession at least 1,200 animals from more than 200 species. Melaka Zoo opened its door to the public in 1963. The major attractions of Melaka Zoo are the Malayan Gaur, Serow and the Malayan Tiger.
In line with the current zoo development, Melaka Zoo adopted an open concept and maintains the natural green environment. Melaka Zoos role is as a centre for wildlife research, conservation breeding, zoo education center and a popular tourist destination.

THE STADTHUYS

Built in 1650 as the official residence of the Dutch Governor and his officers, The Stadthuys is a fine example of Dutch architecture of that period. It is believed to be the oldest Dutch building in the East.

An outstanding example of colonial Dutch architecture, this edifice now houses the History Museum and Ethnography Museum.
On display are traditional bridal costumes and relics from Melaka’s over 400-year history. Both museums are well-laid out and offer detailed explanations of how these costumes and relics played their part in Melaka’s glorious past.

HERITAGE OF MELAKA : THE BABA'S & NYONYA'S

Nyonya

The Nyonya/ Nyonyas are actually the women in the Peranakan community. However, in Singapore, the term Nyonya (also sometimes spelled as Nonya) are loosely used to resemble the Peranakan community in general.

In Malaysia, the Peranakan are more known as Baba Nyonya (where the Baba represents the men in the community). And in Phuket, the term Baba is used instead.

The Nyonya is also known as the Straits-born.

Peranakan

Whatever it is called, the Nyonya/ Peranakan/ Baba Nyonya/ Baba/ Nonya, is a unique community with a distinguished & rich culture.

It is believed that when the trade between China & South East Asia was formed hundred years ago (some goes as far as 15th century, though more are said to be in the 1800s), many Chinese men came over to do business in the region. Some settled down and married the local women.

However unlike most usual marriages which follows one side of the culture (usually, the husband’s), the Nyonya community formed a new culture of their own – blending in Chinese traditions & culture with the local culture (depending on where they are – Malay/ Thai culture).

This is very apparent – especially in the Nyonya food, Nyonya fashion (eg the Nyonya kebaya), Nyonya antique and even the Nyonya wedding.

But despite a new culture, the Nyonya/ Peranakan community is still considered Chinese, observing the Chinese festivals & celebrations. And most of them are also Buddhists or Taoists.

There is another belief however, that inter marriages didn’t occur, but instead it’s a formation of new culture, by the migrants from China who came over to assimilate themselves to the local culture. That is where the term Peranakan is formed.

Nyonya/ Peranakan Culture

One unique thing about the Nyonya/ Peranakan is the Nyonya language/ Nyonya patois, which is a mix of their local dialects with the Chinese dialects. However, again, this differs from place to place.

For example, the Nyonya/ Peranakan in Malacca/ Melaka speak with a base of Malay language with a few words from the Hokkien dialect. Despite using the Malay language as the base, however, their pronunciation differs. There are some new words as well.

The Nyonya in Singapore speak a closer lingo to the Nyonya Melaka, though their pronunciation differs slightly, and usually a native speaker is able to distinguish this.

On the reverse is the Penang Nyonya whose language base is hokkien, with some Malay words.

Over the years, the Peranakan has learnt to speak other languages – mainly English during the colonial times. The younger generation are also learning to speak Chinese, with many parents sending their children to Chinese school to adapt to the opening of China.

This attitude of the Peranakan can be seen as very flexible – where they try to assimilate to what is important. This is interesting to note, as while many new migrants from overseas usually still have stronger affirmations to their country of origin, the Peranakan community sees their new home as their main home.

THE BABA NYONYA HERITAGE MUSEUM

 

 The ‘Straits Chinese’, also called the Baba and Nyonya, are Chinese of noble descent who have adopted much of the Malay culture into theirs. This has been a gradual process lasting over 400 years since the great Chinese explorer Admiral Cheng Ho first brought Chinese settlers to Melaka. Over the centuries, the Baba Nyonya have developed a distinct and highly interesting culture that is unique to Malaysia’s west coast, particularly Melaka.
The public can now view the historical artefacts unique to this heritage at a captivating private museum run by the Babas and Nyonyas of Melaka. Within the walls of this heritage building, you can learn everything there is to know about this unique culture.

The Heritage Museum offers guided tours (by appointment), research facilities and audio visuals. Well worth a visit!

Hang Jebat Mausoleum

 This is the traditional grave of Hang Jebat, a high-ranking Malay warrior during the rule of Sultan Mansor Shah (r. 1456-77). An interesting tale is associated with his life. Legend says that he was appointed to a high position after Hang Tuah, his predecessor and sworn-brother, was wrongfully accused of having an affair with one of the King's maids. But rather than accepting his position, Hang Jebat rose to Hang Tuah's defense and exclaimed "A fair rajah is to be revered, but a cruel rajah is to be despised." These words earned the wrath of the Sultan, who decided that Hang Jebat ought to be executed.

Meanwhile, Hang Tuah's execution was ready to be carried out. His executioner, Bendahara Tun Perak, led him into the jungle where the bloody deed was supposed to be done. However, Bendahara Tun Perak realized the accusations were false and chained Hang Tuah to a tree rather than executing him (why he chained him to a tree is unclear: perhaps he feared Hang Tuah would try to return home?) Since Bendahara Tun Perak needed to return to the Sultan with evidence that the execution went as planned, he soaked Hang Tuah's clothes in goat's blood and presented them to the Sultan.

During this time, Hang Jebat out of spite intentionally became intimate with some of the king's female attendants. The Sultan became even more enraged and remarked to Bendahara Tun Perak that he regretted having Hang Tuah executed since he was such an able warrior (apparently Hang Jebat was nearly invincible). Surprised to hear this, the delighted Bendahara revealed his ruse and told the king that he could summon Hang Tuah right away. Overjoyed, the king ordered Hang Tuah's return and pardoned him.

 When Hang Tuah returned to the palace from the jungle he was given instructions to kill Hang Jebat, but he was horrified at the thought of killing his sworn brother. When he met Hang Jebat on the field for the fatal match, Hang Jebat revealed that he had rebelled against the Sultan because of the false accusations against his sworn brother. Nevertheless, Hang Tuah told Hang Jebat that he had to kill him since the Sultan had given a direct order. Hang Jebat understood but asked that he might wreak havoc for 24 hours as retribution against the Sultan for the troublesome situation that had been caused. Hang Tuah agreed and Hang Jebat had his vengeance.

Nevertheless the next day Hang Tuah fulfilled his orders and killed Hang Jebat. According to legend, this is his grave site.

The grave itself is Achinese in style and is of the type normally used to mark the burial places of high ministers or Sultans of the period, so it is possible that Hang Jebat was a real person buried here. The age of the grave is unknown but it clearly predates the 1512 Portuguese occupation.

TRISHAWS (BECA)

Trishaws, complete with blaring pop music and fake flowers are available as well for short trips between tourist spots or circular tours. The drivers are very cheerful and friendly. The going rate is RM 40 per hour, but settle any price in advance.

Trishaw also known as tricycle rickshaw or pedicab, is undeniably one of the unique attractions in Melaka. Most of the tourists will be amazed on the efforts of decoration put on the trishaws in Melaka rather than other states in Malaysia. The decorated trishaws were one of the identity or icons of Melaka.

Bukit Cina

One of historical hill not only in Melaka but worldwide is Bukit Cina. It is located in the middle of Melaka town. It is about 5 km from Melaka Sentral. This hill features 5  other hills including Bukit Cina, Bukit Tempurung, Bukit Tengah, Bukit Tinggi dan Bukit Gedong.  Bukit Cina is very well known because it is the largest Chinese graveyard outside of China. There are more than 12,500 graves including about 20 Muslim tombs in the 25 hectares grassy hill. It is reputed to be the earliest Chinese settlement in Melaka. The earliest grave found to 1622 but unfortunately many graves were exhumed during the British come to Malaysia.

It is also Melaka’s best jogging track.

History of Bukit Cina.


According to the Malay history, it was said that the China dynasty wanted to have  diplomatic relationship with Melaka’s Sultanate and sent his daughter, Princess Hang Li Po to marry Sultan Mansor Shah (1457-1477).  The princess came with a sizable Chinese settlers which included her 500 handmaidens. The Sultan choose one of hill nearest to Bukit Melaka (now it called Bukit Saint Paul) for his wife.  The Chinese entourage and their descendants remained at Bukit Cina until the fall of Melaka to the Portuguese in 1511.
It was reported that during the Portuguese occupation of Melaka, a Franciscan Monastery and a chapel dedicated to ‘Madre de Deus’ (Mother of God) was erected at the hilltop. It was destroyed when the Achinese attacked the Dutch in 1629.  The Dutch Government subsequently took control of Bukit Cina. In 1700’s  during Dutch occupation, Kapitan Li Wei King bought Bukit Cina and donated the hill to Hoon Teng temple  to be used as burial ground. Before that, Bukit Cina was not a cemetery.
In the foothill there’s a well that was used by the princess and her servants. The well is called Perigi Raja or Perigi Hang Li Po. This well is famously known because it never dry out and become a source of water in dry season.
In 1677, the Dutch built a wall to keep it as their ‘wishing well’. Now, the well has become a tourist attraction and many tourists come to this well to make a wish and put their coin inside the well.

The hill is still an active cemetery although only a few plots are left especially reserved for the Cheng Hoon Temple.
Since the British rule, there had been several attempts to acquire Bukit Cina for development purpose but the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple strongly opposed these attempt and manage to preserve Bukit Cina.


What Can You Do at Bukit Cina?

Bukit Cina is famous for its historical Chinese graveyard. There are many unique cemetery on the hill. Other than that, there’s a jogging trail. From the top of the hill you can get a great view of the city, you can see the full circle panorama of the city and the island nearest to Melaka. Many people spend their time here to jog or just walking,  especially for those who want to maintain their fitness.

At the foot of Bukit Cina, Poh San Teng Temple still active and become attraction to the tourist. The temple was built in 1795 by her ancestor Kapitan Chua Su Cheong.
This is a good place if you have a lot of free time and need a place to sweat out and indulge yourself with nature.

THIS IS KOTA A FAMOSA !

KOTA  A FAMOSA AT MELAKA

• A Famosa is a Portuguese fortress located in Malacca, Malaysia. It is among the oldest surviving European architectural remains in Asia. The Porta de Santiago, a small gate house, is the only remaining part of the fortress still standing.
• In 1511, a Portuguese fleet arrived under the command of Afonso de Albuquerque. His forces attacked and defeated the armies of theMalacca Sultanate. Moving quickly to consolidate his gains, Albuquerque had the fortress built around a natural hill near the sea.Albuquerque believed that Malacca would become an important port linking Portugal to the Spice Route in China. At this time otherPortuguese were establishing outposts in such places as Macau, China and Goa, India in order to create a string of friendly ports for ships heading to China and returning home to Portugal.
• The fortress changed hands again in the early 19th century when the Dutch handed it over to the British to prevent it from falling into the hands of Napoleon's expansionist France. The English were wary of maintaining the fortification and ordered its destruction in 1806. The fort was almost totally demolished but for the timely intervention of Sir Stamford Raffles, the founder of modern Singapore, who happened to visit Malacca in 1810. Because of his passion for history, this small gate was spared from destruction.

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Assalamualaikum and salam sejahtera. this is my blog Herleno Fadzil Honorius with my friend Muhammad Solihin Bin Suria. We create this blog to done our assignment for BC101 Computer Application. Our objective is to find a great place,great food,great culture and great tradition in the world. Specially for our country Malaysia. For our BC101assignment, we will introduce you more about the great place,food,culture and tradition there.  So enjoy with our post here^^.