Melaka (also known as “Malacca”) founded some 600 years ago is a historically rich state which is approximately 120km south of Kuala Lumpur and where it all began for Malaysia. Most old landmarks and building in the historical city is a living history and this once “sleepy hollow” had since grown into a vibrant tourist destination right through the early hours.
Within the historical complex of the Stadhuys along Quayside, the remnants of the “Bastion of Middleburg” were discovered which led to the reconstruction of the tower. This was the original site for Melaka’s latest tourist attraction till the discovery.
Construction of Menara Taming Sari started in January 2007at it’s present re-located site in Banda Hilir which will be ready and open to public from April 07, 2008. This is timely for the Malacca Historical City Day which falls on April 15, 2008 where many events have been lined up to celebrate the event. The tower was named after the mythical keris, Taming Sari, belonging to Malacca warrior Hang Tuah (now kept at Istana Iskandariah Bukit Chandan, Kuala Kangsar). At the peak of the tower, is the structure which resembles the hilt of the keris.
Menara Taming Sari, adopting Swiss technology stands majestically at 110m and cost RM23mil
with a revolving air conditioned glass cabin, provides visitors a breathtaking 360-degree view of the historical city. The cabin can accommodate 80 people (no standing room) for each viewing session which would last 7 minutes. During each session, the cabin would revolve as it rises from the ground to the top of the tower in 1 minute and would go on from 10am till 10pm everyday. The tower will also be able to withstand tremors from an earthquake measuring up to 10 on the Richter scale according to project engineer.Once atop the revolving tower, it provides a grand view of Melaka with it’s blend of heritage buildings, Melaka River, historical sites as well as the bustling business district of Taman Melaka Raya and the “world’s busiest shipping lane” i.e. the Straits of Melaka.
With 500,000 visitors expected annually to Menara Taming Sari, perhaps this is the ingredient to make Melaka once again the focal point of visitors all over the world and charmed by the culture melting pot of Malaysia.
Pictures below were taken on board the Observation Cabin of Menara Taming Sari that the management had provided free rides for some lucky visitors last Friday. I had boarded by chance after an afternoon satay meal nearby.
Feel like experiencing what view and the ride on Menara Taming Sari? Visit Melaka and there are many choices of affordable hotels available here.
The replica of Flor De La Mar ship within the Maritime Museum complex can be seen with the on-going construction for the berthing facilites for yatchs in the foreground. On the top right hand corner is the the project site for the luxury boutique hotel Casa Del Rio.
The view of Melaka town across the Clock Tower bridge.
The view of the latest Melaka hotel, Holiday Inn and the jetty which looks into the Straits of Melaka.
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