Portuguese Settlement in Ujong Pasir in Melaka is a living heritage of the time when Portuguese conquered Melaka and made Melaka their new home after the inter-marriage with local women. This Settlement (the other being in Praya Lane, Bandar Hilir) had been their home for almost 1500 years (through descendants) and lived along the coast as fishermen till the recent reclamation project caused them to build temporary wooden jetty further out into the sea besides a visit there would no longer allow the person to enjoy the view of Straits of Malacca.
They number only about a thousand or so, and the older generation is still able to converse in Creole Portuguese, called Papia Kristang. The homes of the Portuguese settlement could pass for any kampung home of the Malay or Chinese communities at a quick glance. A keen observation however will reveal the Catholic motifs in their deco.Today, most of the descendants are spread out across worldwide and some holding well-paid jobs.
Recently, Hotel De Lisbon opened for business with hawker stalls and restaurants within the building. Hotel De Lisbon is adjacent to Portuguese Square which was a project initiated by the former Prime Minister, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and built in 1985.Festa Intrudo (Water Day, a cleansing activity before the fasting month of Lent), Festa San Pedro (June 29) and Festa San Juang (June 24) are some events which provides the Settlement a festive and cheery mood other then the main celebration of X'mas.
During X'mas, the whole Settlement would be transformed into a 
fairyland where streets, houses and buildings are decorated with lights and is a sight to behold. Visitors came from afar to enjoy the decorations which ranges from Santa Claus on motor bikes and dummy horses. The residents there are also in their best party mood and some traders selling X'mas hats, poppers and etc. further add happiness to all there.
fairyland where streets, houses and buildings are decorated with lights and is a sight to behold. Visitors came from afar to enjoy the decorations which ranges from Santa Claus on motor bikes and dummy horses. The residents there are also in their best party mood and some traders selling X'mas hats, poppers and etc. further add happiness to all there.Spotted a kid not to be outdone and whom had dressed up as a Santa Claus.
This made happen at the initiatives of the residents and the decorations are paid out of their own pocket.
Bong Natal! See you at X'mas 2008!
No comments:
Post a Comment