Historic cities of the Straits of Malacca have developed over 500 years of trading and cultural
Melaka, Malaysia was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on July 7, 2008. George Town was also inscribed on that date, and together, they are recognized as the Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca. Melaka and George Town reflect a multi-cultural heritage that evolved from their strategic location along the trade routes from Great Britain and Europe through the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent, and the Malay Archipelago to China.
Melaka enjoys a strategic location on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, along the historic Straits of Malacca, covering an area of 1,650 sq km. Established in 1403, it was an important trading post in Malaysia’s early history and attracted traders from all over the world.
Today, it is home to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Melaka. This capital city invites you to experience the old world charm of buildings and architecture inherited from centuries of Portuguese, Dutch and British rule, and to witness the various customs and cultures of its people. Beyond the city are attractions such as fruit farms, animal and nature parks as well as resorts and homestays.