Melaka Unfolded: 4D3N of Culture, Cuisine & Celebration During VMY 2026 Launch

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve stepped foot in Melaka — but when Tourism Malaysia extended an invitation to witness the grand launch of Visit Malaysia Year 2026 in this historic city, saying no wasn’t an option. Melaka isn’t just a destination; it’s a living museum, a sensory journey through time. Over four days and three nights, we dove deep into its cultural roots, savoured its legendary cuisine, and stood witness to a milestone moment for Malaysia’s tourism industry. Curious to see what unfolded? 

Bye bye Kuala Lumpur!

Day One: Mana Lagi? Melaka Ler. (Where else? Melaka, of course!)

The morning of Thursday, September 25, 2025, started with high spirits at MaTiC, Kuala Lumpur. Promptly at 10:15 AM, we headed south, leaving the city hustle to delve into the history and culture of the ‘Historic State’.

Mana lagi nak cari asam pedas power? Melaka ler!

Arriving in Melaka around 12:30 PM, our first stop was Restoran Asam Pedas Pak Man. The iconic Melaka dish, Asam Pedas Stingray, was a fiery, sour, and fresh culinary explosion that woke up our taste buds. Paired with salted eggs and fresh ulam (traditional salad), it gave us the energy needed for a packed afternoon.

Rich, spicy, unforgettable. Pak Man’s asam pedas is a Melaka must-try.

Asam Pedas - Spicy, sour, and soul-warming. This is Melaka in a bowl.

Asam Pedas Pak Man is a crowd-puller — just look at the lunchtime rush! Its popularity speaks for itself.

Melaka’s sweetest gem — piping hot kuih keria glazed in gula Melaka, sold just steps away from Asam Pedas Pak Man. A perfect post-lunch treat!

After lunch, we checked in early at Hotel MITC at 1:45 PM. This hotel offered a pleasant contrast—modern comfort in a tranquil setting, perfect for a short rest. Its strategic location near the convention centre was ideal for our itinerary.

Business trip or family getaway? Hotel MITC’s got you covered — Melaka style.

A modest yet welcoming lobby and reception area, accented by a classic chandelier that adds a touch of elegance to the space.

A staircase leads up to the mezzanine floor, where guests can enjoy daily breakfast at the inviting Bemban Restaurant.

Guests are greeted with a refreshing welcome drink and a taste of tradition — locally made dodol, rich, chewy, and unmistakably Malaccan.

Flavours for every craving — right at MITC Hotel.

The room is simple yet comfortable — though a mini fridge would’ve made it even better.

I love how soft and fluffy the towels are — a small touch that makes the stay feel extra comforting.

The toilet and shower area is compact yet clean, featuring a modern rain shower for a refreshing experience.

In addition to the standard complimentary tea and coffee, each room is stocked with Mamee cup noodles — a comforting local touch for late-night cravings.

The Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC) is just a stone’s throw away — clearly visible from the comfort of my hotel window.

Dive into relaxation — the perfect spot to unwind after a day exploring Melaka.

In the late afternoon, at 4:30 PM, we journeyed to Kampung Morten for a Cultural & Heritage Walk. This is the only traditional Malay village that still exists in the middle of Melaka city. Established in the early 20th century, the village was named after Frederick Joseph Morten, a British land commissioner who played a key role in its development. 

Traditional Malay charm, right in the city’s heartbeat. Kampung Morten is heritage you can walk through.

Unlike other kampungs, Kampung Morten was part of a planned settlement and today it stands as a living heritage site with over 100 well-preserved wooden houses showcasing classic Malay architecture. Visitors can explore gems like Villa Sentosa, a century-old home filled with antiques and family stories, making Kampung Morten not just a place to visit, but a place to connect with Melaka’s soul.

We crossed the bridge to enter a cultural time capsule preserved within the heart of the city.

More than a museum — Villa Sentosa is a family home filled with history, heart, and heritage.

We strolled through the heritage houses, admired the architecture, and listened to captivating stories from Pak Ibrahim, the 86-year-old heir of Villa Sentosa. 

A century-old home, a thousand memories — Villa Sentosa is Melaka’s heritage at its most personal.

This house, which is 101 years old, was left by his grandfather, the former village head. The house is beautifully maintained and filled with antique collections. There’s no entry fee, but donations are warmly welcomed to help with the maintenance costs. It wasn’t just a visit, but a profound experience of Malay identity and heritage.

Guided by the warmth of Pak Ibrahim, Villa Sentosa turns history into storytelling.

Several accolades and newspaper clippings celebrating Villa Sentosa’s heritage are proudly displayed — a testament to its cultural significance and enduring legacy in Melaka.

A nostalgic bedroom that echoes the charm of a bygone era — where every detail tells a story from the past.

A traditional pelamin takes pride of place in the hall, adding a touch of cultural elegance and ceremonial charm to the space.

Despite being in his 80s, Pak Ibrahim remains remarkably sharp, with a vivid memory and impeccable command of English — a true storyteller and guardian of heritage.

A chart illustrating the lineage of the Haji Hashim bin Haji Abdil Ghani family at Villa Sentosa

For dinner, we enjoyed authentic Peranakan cuisine at Atlantic Nyonya Restaurant, Taman Malim Jaya Melaka. The busy atmosphere confirmed the restaurant's popularity. 

Mana lagi Nyonya food sedap? Melaka ler! 

The interior of Atlantic Nyonya Restaurant is adorned with traditional painted enamel trays, adding a nostalgic splash of colour and heritage charm to the space.

Dinner is served — a vibrant spread of Nyonya flavours, rich in heritage and spice.

We were treated to a feast of authentic Nyonya dishes like Otak-otak, Dadar Cincalok, Prawns in Pineapple Curry (Udang Lemak Nanas), and Fish with Chilli and Salt (Ikan Cili Garam), served alongside fragrant pandan rice and pineapple rice. Dessert was a delightful bowl of cooling Cendol. Delicious! 

Otak-otak: Grilled banana leaf parcels of spiced fish paste, smoky, fragrant, and rich with coconut and herbs.

Nyonya Zhap Chai: A hearty mixed vegetable stew with tofu, mushrooms, and glass noodles, savoury, comforting, and full of Nyonya flavour.

Ulam Bendi (Sour Chilli Okra): Fresh okra served with tangy sambal belacan, a refreshing ulam with a spicy kick

Fish with Chilli and Salt (Ikan Cili Garam): Crispy fried fish coated in a bold blend of chilli and salt, simple, fiery, and addictive.

Prawns in Pineapple Curry (Udang Lemak Nanas): Juicy prawns simmered in creamy coconut gravy with sweet pineapple, a tangy tropical twist on lemak.

Signature pandan rice — fragrant, fluffy, and infused with the delicate aroma of pandan leaves for a distinctly local touch.

Sweet, icy, and irresistibly local — cendol is Melaka’s answer to tropical indulgence.

We then returned to the hotel for some free time and rest.

Day Two: Heritage and Modern Tourism

Breakfast at Bemban Restaurant

From nasi lemak to baked beans — mornings made better.

On Friday, September 26, 2025, we began the day with breakfast at the hotel, which offered a generous spread — from bread and jam to staples like baked beans and sausages, alongside soup, fried noodles, and local favourites such as rendang and nasi lemak. Soon after, we took a short walk to the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC) to attend the Visit Malaysia Travel Meet (VMTM) 2025.

Visit Malaysia Travel Meet (VMTM) 2025 is a large-scale tourism event organized by Tourism Malaysia, held from September 26 to 28 at the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC).

This major event brought together tourism industry players from across the country for exhibitions, networking sessions, and the launch of new travel packages. 

The official opening ceremony was officiated by YAB Datuk Seri Utama Ab Rauf bin Yusoh, Chief Minister of Melaka, alongside YB Datuk Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia.

The official opening ceremony was graced by YAB Datuk Seri Utama Ab Rauf bin Yusoh, Chief Minister of Melaka, and YB Datuk Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia. 

Tourism, culture, and connection — all under one roof at MITC.

Taste, touch, and feel Malaysia — one booth at a time.

It was an eye-opener to the potential of both domestic and international tourism, perfectly timed for World Tourism Day and Visit Malaysia Year 2026!

Group photo at A Famosa — capturing moments against Melaka’s iconic fortress backdrop.

After lunch at MITC, we launched into the Melaka Old Heritage Tour, starting at Melaka Clock Tower. We first explored the key historical landmarks: the imposing ruins of St. Paul’s Hill and Porta De Santiago (A Famosa)—the Portuguese fort that stands as a powerful symbol of early colonization—and The Stadthuys, the iconic red building that dominates the square and currently houses the history museum. 

Red walls, white cross — Christ Church stands as Melaka’s colonial heartbeat.

Climb into history — Bukit Melaka offers panoramic views and centuries-old stories.

A silent sentinel of St. Paul’s ruins — Saint Xavier’s statue is steeped in spiritual legacy.

Every step on Bukit Melaka echoes with colonial whispers — a hill steeped in history, far more than just a scenic climb.

Our perspective then shifted with a Trishaw Ride! Pedalling through the old streets in a brightly decorated trishaw, complete with lively music, offered a unique and charming way to navigate the Historic City. 

The tour then highlighted Harmony Street, where we witnessed Melaka's unique religious tolerance as three major houses of worship stand united: the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, the Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple, and the distinct Kampung Kling Mosque. 

Where Javanese, Chinese, and Moorish influences meet — Kampung Kling Mosque is a masterpiece of multicultural architecture.

Centuries of devotion carved in wood and stone — Cheng Hoon Teng is Malaysia’s oldest functioning Chinese temple.

Melaka’s oldest Hindu temple stands in quiet grace — a tribute to faith, colour, and cultural continuity.

We ended the trishaw ride at the vibrant Jonker Walk, the perfect stop for buying gifts and soaking up the local culture, bustling with street food, souvenirs, and live performances.

From spice-laden vessels to sightseeing boats — the Melaka River has always welcomed travellers.

The highlight of the late afternoon was the Melaka River Cruise. The boat trip along the Melaka River offered a new perspective on the city—colourful buildings, stunning murals, unique bridges, and colonial architecture lining the banks.

From colonial facades to kampung charm, the river reveals Melaka’s many faces.

Gliding through history — the Melaka River Cruise offers a front-row seat to the city’s soul.

We wrapped up the packed day with a superb seafood dinner at Restoran Ikan Bakar Parameswara. Fresh catches like Grilled Seabass (Ikan Siakap Bakar), Deep-fried Calamari, Nestum Prawns, and Siakap Tiga Rasa (three-flavour seabass) were the perfect finale.

Where fresh seafood meets fiery grills — Restoran Ikan Bakar Parameswara serves up bold flavours by the waterfront

Straight from the sea to the grill — smoky, tender, and lightly charred to perfection, served with sambal and signature dipping sauces.

Siakap Tiga Rasa - Whole seabass drenched in a bold trio of sweet, sour, and spicy sauces — a flavour-packed showstopper that balances heat and tang.

Golden rings of squid, crispy on the outside and juicy within — a crunchy crowd-pleaser with a hint of spice.

Crispy prawns coated in fragrant cereal — buttery, aromatic, and irresistibly crunchy with every bite.

Get your greens in — because vibrant plates mean vibrant days.

Day Three: Magical Heritage and the Grand Launch Night

After breakfast on Saturday, September 27, 2025, we visited the Malaysia Heritage Studios in Ayer Keroh. Built on the former Mini Malaysia and ASEAN Cultural Park site, this venue is dubbed the country’s "first magical heritage park." 

Where heritage meets imagination — Malaysia Heritage Studios brings culture to life.

It showcases Malaysian heritage in an interactive format, featuring beautifully curated replicas of traditional houses from all 13 states, transformed into thematic galleries exploring the nation's arts, culture, and architecture.

Culture, colour, and creativity — it’s all waiting at Malaysia Heritage Studios.

A fun and educational destination for families, students, and curious adults alike — where culture comes alive through play and discovery.

From Perlis’s charm to Sabah’s stilts — every house tells a story.

We came to Malaysia Heritage Studios to see a Melaka house — how ironic, considering we’re already in Melaka!

Cultural rhythms come alive — a captivating dance performance at Malaysia Heritage Studios celebrates tradition with every step.

We had a simple Malay lunch at Restoran Desa Batu before heading back to the hotel to rest and prepare for the evening's main event.

Local eats, no fuss — Desa Batu dishes out comfort food just around the corner from MITC.

A generous spread of curries awaits — rich, varied, and full of flavour.

My pick: white rice paired with creamy buttermilk chicken, bold tetel asam pedas, and stir-fried cabbage for that perfect balance of spice and crunch.

The climax of our trip was the grand and colorful launch of Visit Malaysia Year 2026 at Encore Melaka. The event was officiated by YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia, alongside other dignitaries and tourism delegates from around the world. This ceremony symbolized the nation’s readiness to welcome tourists in the coming year.

Malaysia is ready to welcome the world — VM2026 begins with a spectacular launch in Melaka.

The night featured dazzling performances by Malaysia's number one artist, Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza, Misha Omar, and other local celebrities. Melaka made history that night, setting a new Malaysia Book of Record (MBOR) for the tourism sector by gathering 3,224 dancers to perform the zapin simultaneously. 

The evening was capped off with a spectacular 1,000-drone show forming various formations to mark the Launch of Visit Malaysia Year 2026, World Tourism Day (WTD), and the World Tourism Conference (WTC) 2025, followed by a mesmerizing fireworks display.

Encore Melaka — where history takes the stage and storytelling meets spectacle.

The Honourable Prime Minister officiated the Proclamation Ceremony of the Historic Maritime Exhibition: World Naval Hero Enrique de Malaca, portrayed by Dato’ Rosyam Nor.

Record-breaking moment! A thunderous applause for the 3,224 Zapin dancers who brought Melaka into the Malaysia Book of Records.

Art Unites the Nation. Malaysia’s rich cultural diversity shines on stage through vibrant performances, reflecting the spirit of unity we proudly uphold. This is the true face of Malaysia for VM2026!

Malaysia’s Pop Queen on the World Stage — the presence and performance of Dato’ Sri Siti Nurhaliza added grandeur to the VM2026 Launch.

A powerful and heartfelt performance by renowned singer Misha Omar lit up the historic night of the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 launch.

A special appearance by Melaka’s Tourism Friendship Ambassador, Fan Bingbing, who joined in celebrating the successful launch of VM2026!

Dinner is served — featuring local favourites like asam pedas, salted fish in pineapple coconut gravy, and more comforting classics.

A celebratory banquet to mark the grand launch — bringing together guests, flavours, and festive spirit in honour of VM2026

A breathtaking drone formation featuring Wira and Manja lit up the sky — a surreal tribute to Malaysia’s spirit and charm.

A vibrant welcome to global travellers — Malaysia is ready to shine.

Explosions of colour, unity, and pride — fireworks crowned an unforgettable night in Melaka.

Surreal experiences await — and it all started with one unforgettable night in Melaka.

Day Four: Goodbye Melaka

Sunday, September 28, 2025, it was time to leave.

Official merchandise for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 to take home — proudly showcasing the spirit, colours, and culture of Malaysia. Thank you, Tourism Malaysia.

Melaka is more than a tourist spot; it’s an experience that touches the soul. From the rich historical heritage and tempting local cuisine to the friendliness of its people—every moment here is a story worth sharing. If you're looking for a getaway that combines culture, food, and a relaxed atmosphere, Melaka is the answer.

Mana Lagi? Melaka Ler

A Note of Gratitude

A huge thank you to Tourism Malaysia for smoothly organizing this incredible 4D3N trip. The itinerary perfectly showcased the spirit of Melaka and the excitement for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

To my fellow media colleagues, your companionship made this journey truly enjoyable.

And finally, my sincere thanks to all the local partners, sponsors, and service staff who worked tirelessly to make this trip memorable.

Thank you for bringing the history and heart of Melaka to life!

Note: Official event photos were taken from Facebook of Majlis Bandaraya Melaka Bersejarah, Abdul Razak Abdul Rahman, Tourism Melaka and Tourism Malaysia.