3 Days in Timeless Malacca:
A Journey Through Culture, History, and Maritime Wonders
Article written by: Phang Fu Chun, President of MTM Student Council
Inputs and Quotes provided by: Gu Jingjing, Sun Yue, and Zhang Hezi
Photography: Gu Jingjing, Karthus Shang, Phang Fu Chun, and Zhang Hezi
Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Strait of Malacca, the historic city of Malacca invites you to step into a living storybook brimming with colonial splendour, maritime legends, and lively local culture. Over the university vacation at the end of Semester 1, the MTM Student Club whisked MSc MTM students away for a three-day adventure through this UNESCO World Heritage gem. From its timeless architecture to its modern-day allure, Malacca proved to be the perfect mix of past and present - a destination bursting with charm and unforgettable experiences.
26 Nov 2024 – Day 1: Colonial Heritage and Cultural Immersion
Our adventure kicked off with a cosy coach ride from Singapore, setting the stage for an unforgettable trip. By lunchtime, we had arrived in Malacca, ready to dive into a delicious feast at the much-loved Johnny's Restaurant. With our appetites satisfied, the afternoon was all about soaking up the city’s charm, starting with the iconic Taming Sari Tower.
This revolving gyro tower treated us to spectacular 360-degree views of the historic city – a breath-taking first glimpse of Malacca’s stunning landscape!
The historical trail continued with visits to two of Malacca's most significant religious landmarks: Saint Paul's Church and Christ Church. These centuries-old structures stand as testament to the city's colonial past, with Saint Paul's Church perched atop St. Paul's Hill offering not just historical significance but also panoramic views of the surroundings.
No visit to Malacca is complete without sampling local delicacies. At San Shu Gong, we discovered a treasure trove of traditional snacks and delicacies, perfect for bringing home a taste of Malacca. The day concluded with a sumptuous seafood feast at Eight Treasure Fish Head Pot, where we savoured fresh local seafood prepared the traditional way. After a full day of exploration and cultural immersion, we returned to the comfort of Estadia Hotel for a well-deserved rest.
27 Nov 2024 – Day 2: Maritime Legacy and Cultural Streets
Our second day delved deep into Malacca's maritime heritage. After starting with an authentic local breakfast at a traditional Indian restaurant, we embarked on a fascinating maritime journey through three distinct museums.
The Maritime Museum, housed in a replica of the Portuguese ship Flor de La Mar, offered an immersive experience into the seafaring history of Malacca. The adjacent Old Guthrie Building provided further insights into the commercial maritime trade that made Malacca a coveted port city. Our naval exploration culminated at the Royal Malaysian Navy Museum, where we gained perspective on Malaysia's modern maritime capabilities and naval history.
After a fulfilling morning of maritime discoveries, we indulged in a contemporary lunch experience at Haidilao Hot Pot, renowned for its exceptional service and quality ingredients. The afternoon led us to the vibrant Jonker Street, the heart of Malacca's Chinatown. Here, we wandered through a fascinating array of antique shops, craft stores, and traditional houses, experiencing the living heritage of the city's Chinese community.
28 Nov 2024 – Day 3: Architectural Marvel by the Straits
Our final morning in Malacca was nothing short of magical as we visited the breathtaking Masjid Selat Melaka, lovingly known as the Malacca Straits Mosque. Perched on stilts over the shimmering waters, this architectural gem seems to float gracefully on the Straits of Malacca during high tide. With its modern Islamic design and tranquil waterfront setting, the mosque offered a serene and awe-inspiring farewell to our Malacca adventure – truly the perfect way to wrap up an unforgettable journey.
Visiting Malacca was an unforgettable experience! The historical charm of the city is captivating, especially landmarks like Gereja St. Paul (St. Paul’s Church) and the Dutch Square, which reflect the city’s past. Standing at the 100-meter-high Taming Sari Tower overlooking the entire city and visiting the seaside Masjid Selat Melaka (Malacca Straits Mosque), we got a sense of the greatness of the Straits of Malacca, the busiest strait in the world. Walking along Jonker Street was a delight, with vibrant shops, street performances, and delicious local cuisine. I especially loved the Chicken Rice Balls, Nyonya Laksa, and Cendol, which were both unique and flavorful. The blend of cultural heritage and culinary delights made Malacca a truly memorable destination.
-Sun Yue
Our 3D2N journey to Malacca was a captivating voyage through time, unveiling the intricate tapestry of colonial heritage, maritime history, and a vibrant local culture🥳😆.
From the breathtaking vistas offered by the Taming Sari Tower to the historical significance of Saint Paul's Church, every moment was etched in our memories as unforgettable📸. The local delicacies at San Shu Gong and the sumptuous seafood feast at Eight Treasure Fish Head Pot delighted our taste buds🍲🍹, while the immersive experience into Malacca's maritime heritage was perfectly complemented by the lively atmosphere of Jonker Street. The magnificent Masjid Selat Melaka served as a serene conclusion, leaving an everlasting impression on our hearts and minds.
Every single moment during this trip was filled with joy and heartfelt connections, making it a treasure to cherish forever.🫶🏻😆
-Zhang Hezi