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THE Melaka state government is implementing a series of strategic and technical measures to safeguard the archaeological heritage site around Bukit Melaka, aiming to preserve historical elements discovered near the Sultanate Palace.
State Executive Councillor for Tourism, Heritage, Arts and Culture, Datuk Abdul Razak Abdul Rahman, said significant structures have been uncovered at the Taman Larangan area, including remnants of the Melaka Fortress alignment and Bastion Hendrica Lisa.
“One of the key measures is the continuation of archaeological excavation at the site and the broader Bukit Melaka area, which holds a wealth of historical evidence and can be developed into a new tourism product called ‘archaeo-tourism’,” he told the State Legislative Assembly at Seri Negeri.
“Tourists will have the opportunity to witness archaeological work firsthand, with laterite stone structures preserved in situ as heritage objects. These will be integrated into site development plans as part of open-air exhibitions or heritage interpretation centres,” he said in response to a question from Leng Chau Yen (PH-Bandar Hilir).
Abdul Razak added that the state is also rolling out awareness programmes including seminars, workshops and exhibitions to enhance public understanding of heritage value.
Heritage education and community awareness efforts will be strengthened through strategic collaborations with academic institutions, tourism agencies and other stakeholders.
“Interpretive signage equipped with QR codes will be installed at the site to help the public grasp the historical importance of the area. At the same time, modern development will be strictly monitored to avoid damaging the heritage value of the location,” he said.
“These efforts reflect the state government’s continued commitment to long-term archaeological conservation while laying a solid foundation for academic research, public education and sustainable heritage tourism,” he added.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh announced that the development of the Melaka Inland Port in Taboh Naning, Alor Gajah, will provide investors with access to cargo transport via railway connections.
He said the 52.89-hectare logistics-focused project aims to support investors in Melaka as well as neighbouring Johor and Negeri Sembilan.
“MCORP signed an agreement with DS Rail Mobility Sdn Bhd on 13 June to undertake the project, with a gross development cost of RM230.8 million for Phase 1. This is part of the MCORP Hi-Tech Park spanning 2,023 hectares,” he said.
Answering a question from Datuk Zulkiflee Mohd Zin (BN-Taboh Naning), the Chief Minister said planning for the project began in November 2024 and the developer is now preparing the necessary documents for approvals, including local planning permissions and environmental impact assessments.
Ab Rauf noted that the inland port project is being developed with comprehensive environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations, including green technology integration, low-carbon rail connectivity, local community empowerment and transparent governance—aligned with Melaka’s sustainable development agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
He further announced that the Public Works Ministry has approved a RM30 million road upgrade project from the Simpang Ampat Toll roundabout to the Alor Gajah–Melaka Tengah–Jasin (AMJ) Highway under Rolling Plan 3 (RP3) of the 12th Malaysia Plan.
The upgrade will involve road widening from one to two lanes, slope reinforcement, drainage works, land acquisition, utility relocation and associated works.
“The project is currently in the final stage of detailed design. Land acquisition under Sections 4 and 8 is expected to be submitted to the Federal Lands and Mines Department (JKPTG) in early August,” he said.
“The tender advertisement is expected by mid-August 2025, with contractor appointment anticipated in December 2025,” he added. - July 21, 2025
