Melaka and Jakarta unite to boost historical tourism

In a landmark collaboration aimed at promoting historical tourism, the Jakarta Culture Agency joined hands with the State of Melaka, Malaysia, culminating in the inauguration of the Melaka Gallery Jakarta. The ceremony took place at the Jakarta History Museum in the Kota Tua area of West Jakarta last Saturday.

The Melaka Gallery Jakarta, situated in the Main Hall of the Jakarta History Museum, serves as a comprehensive showcase of Melaka’s rich history, arts, culture, and ethnography. Among its highlights are replicas of historical buildings, offering visitors a glimpse into Melaka’s architectural heritage. Additionally, the gallery provides detailed information about Melaka’s renowned tourist attractions, including the Museum, Melaka River, Taming Sari Tower, Melaka Zoo, Crocodile Park, Tamanan Beach, and other intriguing destinations.

Jakarta-Melaka ties for cultural unity

Yang Berhormat (YB) Datuk Wira Zaidi Johari, Melaka State Secretary, expressed appreciation for the enduring cooperation between Jakarta and Melaka. Recognizing the shared traditions and values between Indonesia and Malaysia, he attributed the cultural similarities to the proximity of the two countries and the common ethnic Malay population.

YB Datuk Wira Zaidi Johari revealed that the Melaka Gallery in Jakarta had a journey of its own, originally located in Tambora, West Jakarta, in 2013, and later moved to the Kota Tua area in 2018. The latest relocation to the Jakarta History Museum in 2022 marked its official opening to the public on August 12, 2023.

“I appreciate the support that has been given and hope that it can strengthen and expand the cooperation between Jakarta and Melaka in other fields or activities,” YB Datuk Wira Zaidi Johari remarked, emphasizing the potential for collaboration beyond cultural exchanges.

Highlighting the significance of the collaboration, he urged Indonesian residents, especially those in Jakarta, to visit Melaka, inviting them to explore the diverse programs planned for 2024, declared as the Year of Melaka with 80 programs throughout the year.

Forging bonds amid pandemic challenges

Esti Utami, Head of the Jakarta History Museum Management Unit, detailed the history of collaboration between the Jakarta Museum Management Unit and the Melaka Museum, which began during the Covid-19 pandemic. The partnership has led to various educational initiatives, including public programs like “Neighbors Whispering” that explore themes related to Jakarta and Melaka.

“We welcome and appreciate the establishment of the Melaka Gallery at the Jakarta History Museum,” Utami said, expressing hope that the gallery would serve as a promotional medium, fostering a deeper understanding of Melaka among the people of Jakarta and, in turn, increasing Indonesian visits to Melaka.

She concluded by underlining the reciprocal nature of the collaboration, expressing optimism that the Jakarta Gallery in Melaka would also encourage Melaka residents to explore the cultural richness of Jakarta. The Jakarta Culture Agency looks forward to the continued growth of this collaboration, extending into diverse fields and activities in the future.