Melaka

9 Feb 2011 - I went to Melaka for the Chinese New Year weekend. Melaka, the most historical city of Malaysia, traces its origins to the year 1400, when the state was founded by an exiled prince from Sumatra. It gained name and fame as the trading emporium of the region under the Melaka sultanate. The colorful town became a melting pot of various communities and a veritable treasure trove of the past. Attractions include monuments of the Portugese, Dutch and British eras suck as A'Famosa, the Stadthuys, St. Paul's Church and St. John's Fort. The city's museums provide glimpses into its glorious past. It is also possible to wander Jonker Street and its parallel streets which lots of antique and curiosa shops. Modern Melaka experienced the sudden economic boom that swept through Malaysia in the 1990s, starting with massive land reclamation projects. The historic waterfront retreated inland. Many locals argue that the city's distinctive heritage is under threat from modernisation. Melaka is only two hours drive south of Kuala Lumpur.