The Melaka River: A Journey Through History
The Melaka River, or Sungai Melaka, is the historical and geographical heart of the city, a winding artery that once made Melaka a global trading powerhouse, earning it the nickname “Venice of the East.” In the 15th century, the river mouth was the strategic site where Parameswara founded the Malacca Sultanate, establishing a crucial port for the spice trade between Asia and Europe. The riverbank was a bustling hub of commerce, with merchants from around the world docking their junks and ships.
Following decades of neglect and pollution, an ambitious rehabilitation and beautification project was launched in the early 2000s. This transformation has successfully converted the river into a picturesque and thriving tourist attraction. The once-dilapidated shophouses and historic buildings lining its banks have been restored, painted with vibrant murals depicting Melaka’s rich culture, and illuminated spectacularly at night.
Today, the most popular way to experience this historic waterway is the Melaka River Cruise. This 45-minute boat ride glides past colonial-era architecture, the iconic Red Square, old churches, and the preserved traditional houses of Kampung Morten. It offers a tranquil and immersive perspective on the city’s layered history, proving that the river remains the soul of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
