最後更新／Last Updated：2023-09-25
Arriving at this long-anticipated World Heritage Site, I felt just as excited as I did on the first day of a journey far from home. During the Age of Exploration, Malacca became a highly contested region in the past due to its strategic location for both trade and military purposes. As a result, it has many cultural influences from colonizers. Among all the cities in Malaysia, Malacca is the place I most want to visit.
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◦ The Stadhuys Complex
At the first stop, I arrived at the city square and the Red House. Malacca, which was successively occupied by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, still retains strong colonial influences in its architecture and streets.
◦ St. Paul’s Church
Not far from the square, there is St. Paul's Church, which has now become a ruin. This small church, built by Portuguese nobles, served a military purpose when the Dutch took over. After the British defeated the Dutch, it was transformed into a gunpowder depot once again. So, this little church is like a treasure trove of rich culture shaped by the currents of history.
◦ Masjid Selat Melaka
In addition to numerous historical sites and museums, there are also breathtaking buildings by the sea. The mosque that floats on the Malacca Strait is a dreamlike sight, where the recitation of prayers blends with the sound of the waves, creating a unique atmosphere. Inside the mosque, you won't find intimidating statues or massive murals. Instead, there are alcoves facing Mecca and stained glass windows that allow sunlight to filter in gently.
◦ How to travel from Kuala Lumpur to Malacca
Take the light rail or KTM Komuter train to the TBS Bus Terminal (Bandar Tasik Selatan), then transfer to a bus. The journey takes approximately two hours.