Introduction

Melaka map

Melaka is located in the Western Coast of Peninsular Malaysia facing the Straits of Melaka. It placed between Johor Bahru and Negeri Sembilan. It covers and area of 658 square kilometers and divide into 3 district which are Alor Gajah, Melaka Tengah and Jasin. Melaka is actually found sandwiched between the states of Negeri Sembilan and Johor. It can be reached by excellent roads from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Internally it is serviced by a very good network of roads leading to all the historical places of interest.

Peninsular Malaysia

Melaka was founded by Parameswara which is the last ruler of Temasik (Singapore) in 1396. The name of Melaka was taken by tree name that he leaned against it while he and his followers resting. According to the popular legend, while resting he saw his dog was kicked by mouse deer into the river.He was impressed by the courage of the mouse deer and the situation as a propitious omen of the weak overcoming the powerful.

Melaka also known as an international port by compelling passing ships to call there and establishing fair and reliable facilities for warehousing and trade. Most of the merchants and imperial from China went to Bukit Cina for having excellent Feng Shui.Parameswara died in 1424, he was buried at Bukit Larangan (Fort Canning in Singapore) and was succeeded by his son, Sultan Muhammad Shah.

The Dutch, who held Melaka for over a century, left many fine buildings marking their heritage. The most imposing relic of the Dutch period is the Stadthuys, a strikingly pink town hall which is today the oldest Dutch building in the Far East. Right next to it stands the bright red Christ Church, constructed with pink bricks imported from Holland and covered with local red lacerite. Today, these buildings together with the ruins of the Portuguese built A Famosa and St. Paul's Church are the most prominent reminders of the Europeans' presence in Melaka.


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