Intrudu

A day in each year (February 1st), Portuguese Settlement in modern Melaka turns into a "battle" zone. However, it is a safe "war" zone for all to enter with the only condition that you would need to bring spare clothings. The difference in this war is that the event is friendly and a joyous affair.

The event being celebrated is called Intrudu, meaning "Coming Before" in Christao (Kristang as as it known to the local Portuguese). This ancient Portuguese carnival is celebrated by the whole community in the Settlement and is similar to the Loy Krathong festival. Visitors to the Ujong Pasir Setlement on that particular day would be treated the same as the community living in the Settlement.

During the day, everyone runs the risk of being, and often getting, splashed or poured on without immunity. Traditional street dancing takes over in the evening till 12 midnight, as soaked revelers boogie from house to house on into the night.

Visitors will get to experience light refreshments, entertainment and cultural performances from 7:30pm onwards. Traditional street dancing "Branyu Rudia" will be the highlight and visitors are most welcome to join in this joyous dance as soaked revelers boogie right through midnight.

So get your calendars marked for Intrudu 2009 and ready for the splashing time if you have missed it this year.